Communication method and communication device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and a communication device, which are used for solving the problem that user equipment (UE) cannot be accessed to the same network through two different 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) paths at the same time, and the communication method and the communication device are used for solving the problem that the user equipment (UE) cannot be accessed to the same network through two different 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) paths at the same time. The method comprises: when a UE accesses a network through a first path connecting a first wireless access network device and a first access and mobility management network element, the UE sends indication information indicating to select different access and mobility management network elements to a second access network device. Thus, the second access network device can select a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element to complete registration of the UE in the second path according to the identification information and the indication information of the first access and mobility management network element. Therefore, the UE can access the same network through different paths of two different access and mobility management network elements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present application relate to the field of communications, and more particularly, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Art

[0002] Dual connectivity technology can be referred to as Dual Steer technology. In a dual connectivity scenario, a user equipment (UE) can simultaneously access the same network through two 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) access type connections. For example, the UE can use a subscriber identity module (SIM) card and simultaneously access the same public land mobile network (PLMN) through two different radio access networks (RANs) of the 3GPP access type. The 3GPP access type corresponds to two paths, and both paths pass through the access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0003] Currently, in the dual connectivity scenario, two different RANs in the two paths will select the same AMF to access the same network. However, when the AMF establishes the second path for the same UE, it will release the connection of the first path. Therefore, the effect of accessing the network simultaneously through two different paths of the 3GPP access type cannot be achieved.

[0004] Therefore, how to enable the UE to access the same network simultaneously through two different paths in the dual connectivity scenario is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present application provides a communication method and a communication device, which can enable the UE to access the same network simultaneously through two different 3GPP paths, thereby improving the communication rate.

[0006] To achieve the above object, the present application adopts the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, and the method can be executed by a communication device.

[0008] The method includes: a communication device accessing the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element; the communication device sending a request message to a second radio access network device, where the request message is used to request registering the communication device to the network, and the request message includes indication information for the second radio access network device to select a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element, and the communication device accessing the network through the first path and a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management network element at the same time.

[0009] It can be understood that in this application, the communication device described in the first aspect and each of the following aspects may be a terminal device (such as a mobile phone), or a chip (system) that can be disposed in the terminal device. That is to say, the communication method described in the first aspect may be executed by the terminal device or by the chip (system) in the terminal device.

[0010] Based on the communication method provided in the first aspect, by sending indication information for selecting different access and mobility management network elements to the second radio access network device through the communication device, the second radio access network device is enabled to select an access and mobility management network element different from that in the first path, so that the different access and mobility management network elements respectively maintain an N2 connection for the communication device, and further the communication device can access the same network through two different paths for two different access and mobility management network elements.

[0011] In a possible implementation, the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths at the same time, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths at the same time, and the two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two different access and mobility management network elements. Alternatively, the indication information indicates selecting different access and mobility management network elements. By enabling the second radio access network device to know that the communication device accesses the network through dual connection, different access and mobility management network elements are selected for the communication device to access the network.

[0012] In a possible implementation, the indication information is the user concealed identifier (SubscriptionConcealed Identifier, SUCI) of the communication device. It can be understood that the SUCI can implicitly indicate that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or implicitly indicate that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, or the SUCI can indicate the selection of different access and mobility management network elements. Exemplarily, the request message can be an access network (AN) message, and the AN parameters in the AN message include the SUCI and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. Therefore, the AN message received by the second radio access network device includes the SUCI and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. The second radio access network device can determine that the communication device is not initially registered based on the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element, but the SUCI is sent. Therefore, it can be determined that the communication device hopes to access the network through dual connectivity.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the request message is an access network AN message. The communication device sends an AN message to the second radio access network device. The AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the AN parameters in the AN message include the indication information. Since the access network parameters are fields that can be parsed by the radio access network device, the indication information can be obtained.

[0014] In another possible implementation, the communication device sends an AN message to the second radio access network device. The AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. The AN message includes AN parameters, and the AN parameters include the indication information and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. By sending the indication information and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element to the second radio access network device, the second radio access network device can be informed to select other access and mobility management network elements different from the first access and mobility management network element.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives a registration acceptance message from the first access and mobility management network element through the first path. The registration acceptance message includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element.

[0016] In a possible implementation, before the communication device sends the request message, the communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. Further, the communication device determines that it has already accessed the network through the first path. Therefore, it needs to register to the network through the second path, that is, the communication device sends the request message to the second radio access network device.

[0017] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives first information, where the first information is used to indicate the type of radio access technology (RAT) that allows the communication device to access the network; the communication device selects a radio access network device corresponding to the RAT type allowed to access the network according to the first information and registers with the network. The communication device obtains the RAT types allowed by the network and accesses the network through the RAT type allowed to access the network. The network notifies the communication device of the first information, so that the communication device selects a suitable RAT type from the first information to access, avoiding the UE selecting an RAT that cannot be accessed and increasing the success rate of the UE accessing the network.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the RAT type corresponding to the second radio access network device is included in the RAT types allowed to access the network. It can be understood that the communication device determines a suitable RAT type according to the first information, and thus selects the second radio access network device of the suitable RAT type.

[0019] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a communication device, or can also be executed by a chip or circuit of the communication device. This application does not make any limitations in this regard. For ease of description, the following takes the execution by the communication device as an example for illustration.

[0020] The method includes: the communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element; the communication device sends a request message to a second access and mobility management network element through a second radio access network device, where the request message is used to request to register the communication device with the network, and the request message includes information for the second access and mobility management network element to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path. The second access and mobility management network element and the first access and mobility management network element may be the same or different. The communication device accesses the network through the first path and a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management network element at the same time.

[0021] Based on the communication method provided in the second aspect, by sending, by the communication device, information for the access and mobility management network element to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path to the access and mobility management network element, the access and mobility management network element creates a new context of the communication device according to this information. Thus, when the two paths are for the same access and mobility management network element, the access and mobility management network element retains two N2 connections corresponding to the two paths through two sets of communication device contexts respectively. Furthermore, the communication device can access the same network through two different paths for the same access and mobility management network element.

[0022] In a possible implementation, the communication device sends a request message to the second access and mobility management function (AMF) via the second radio access network device, and the request message is a registration request message. The registration request message includes information for the AMF to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path. Since the registration request message is a field that can be parsed by the second AMF, the information for the AMF to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path can be obtained. Further, the second AMF creates a context of a new communication device for the communication device. It should be noted that when the second AMF is the same as the first AMF on the first path, the second AMF will retain the context of the communication device for the first path and create a context of the communication device for the second path. When the second AMF is different from the first AMF on the first path, the second AMF can create a context of the communication device.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the information for the AMF to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network via two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network via two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different AMFs. Alternatively, the information for the AMF to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path indicates to create a context of the communication device.

[0024] In a possible implementation, the information for the AMF to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path is the SUCI, that is, the identifier of the communication device carried in the registration request message is the SUCI. It can be understood that although the communication device has a 5G globally unique temporary identity (5G-GUTI) assigned by the first AMF here, the identifier of the communication device used in the registration request message sent by the communication device is the SUCI, and the registration type can be an initial registration. Therefore, the second AMF cannot associate the context of the communication device through the identifier information of the communication device, that is, the SUCI. The second AMF will consider that the communication device is a different communication device from the communication device on the first path according to the SUCI, and thus will create a second context of the communication device for the communication device.

[0025] In a possible implementation, the communication device initially registers with the network using the first SUCI via the first path, and registers with the network using a second SUCI different from the first SUCI via the second path.

[0026] In another possible implementation, the communication device non-initially registers with the network using the first SUCI via the first path, and registers with the network using a second SUCI different from the first SUCI via the second path. It should be noted that when the communication device uses different SUCI, the second access and mobility management network element will consider the communication device and the communication device on the first path to be different communication devices based on the different SUCI. It should be noted that the communication device can encrypt the subscriber permanent identifier (SUPI) to obtain the SUCI, and the SUCI obtained by the communication device each time it encrypts the same SUPI is different. For example, it is encrypted as the first SUCI once and as the second SUCI another time, and the SUPI obtained after decrypting the first SUCI and the second SUCI subsequently is the same.

[0027] In a possible implementation, before the communication device sends a request message to the second radio access network device, the communication device generates a second SUCI.

[0028] In a possible implementation, the communication device generates a second SUCI according to the information that the communication device hopes to access the network via two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements.

[0029] In a possible implementation, before the communication device sends a request message, the communication device determines that it hopes to access the network via two different paths simultaneously. Further, the communication device determines that it has already accessed the network via the first path, so it needs to register with the network via the second path, that is, the communication device sends the request message to the second radio access network device.

[0030] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives first information, where the first information is used to indicate the radio access technology (RAT) type that allows the communication device to access the network; the communication device selects a radio access network device corresponding to the RAT type that allows access to the network according to the first information and registers with the network. The communication device obtains the RAT type allowed by the network and accesses the network via the RAT type that allows access to the network. The network notifies the communication device of the first information, so that the communication device selects a suitable RAT type from the first information to access, avoiding the UE selecting a RAT that cannot be accessed and increasing the success rate of the UE accessing the network.

[0031] In a possible implementation, the RAT type corresponding to the second radio access network device is included in the RAT types allowed to access the network. It can be understood that the communication device determines a suitable RAT type according to the first information, and thus selects the second radio access network device of the suitable RAT type.

[0032] In a third aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a communication device, or can also be executed by a chip or circuit of the communication device. This application does not make a limitation in this regard. For ease of description, the following takes the execution by the communication device as an example for illustration.

[0033] The method includes: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management entity; the communication device sends a request message to a second access and mobility management entity through a second radio access network device. The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. The request message includes indication information, and the indication information is used to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path. The second access and mobility management entity and the first access and mobility management entity are the same or different. The communication device accesses the network through the first path and a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management entity at the same time.

[0034] Based on the communication method provided in the third aspect, by sending, by the communication device, indication information for retaining the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path to the access and mobility management entity, the access and mobility management entity retains the connection of the first path according to this information when establishing the connection of the second path for the communication device. Thus, when the two paths are for the same access and mobility management entity, the access and mobility management entity retains the connections of the two paths respectively. Furthermore, the communication device can access the same network through two different paths for the same access and mobility management entity.

[0035] In a possible implementation, the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths at the same time, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths at the same time. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two access and mobility management entities that are the same or different. Or, it indicates retaining the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0036] In a possible implementation, the registration request message includes a registration type. Among them, the indication information is a field in the registration type. Exemplarily, the field in the registration type is DualSteer Registration. It can be understood that a new registration type is added. Here, the name is not limited. This registration type is DualSteerRegistration, which is used to indicate that this registration is for the second path of dual connection registration of the communication device. That is, the value of the field of the registration type in the prior art is replaced with DualSteer Registration, so as to minimize the modification of the existing request message format and ensure the compatibility of the system.

[0037] In a possible implementation, before the communication device sends a request message, the communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths at the same time. Further, the communication device determines that it has accessed the network through the first path. Therefore, it needs to register to the network through the second path, that is, the communication device sends the request message to the second radio access network device.

[0038] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives first information, where the first information is used to indicate the radio access technology (RAT) type that allows the communication device to access the network; the communication device selects a radio access network device corresponding to the RAT type that allows access to the network according to the first information and registers to the network. The communication device obtains the RAT type allowed by the network and accesses the network through the RAT type that allows access to the network. The network notifies the communication device of the first information, so that the communication device selects a suitable RAT type from the first information to access, avoiding the UE selecting a RAT that cannot be accessed and increasing the success rate of UE access.

[0039] In a possible implementation, the RAT type corresponding to the second radio access network device is included in the RAT types that allow access to the network. It can be understood that the communication device determines a suitable RAT type according to the first information, and thus selects the second radio access network device of the suitable RAT type.

[0040] In a fourth aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by an access and mobility management network element, or can also be executed by a chip or circuit of the access and mobility management network element. This application does not make any limitation in this regard. For ease of description, the following takes the execution by the access and mobility management network element as an example for illustration.

[0041] The method includes: The access and mobility management network element establishes a connection with the communication device through a first path with a first radio access network device;

[0042] The access and mobility management function receives a request message from the communication device via a second path with the second radio access network device. The request message is used to request the registration of the communication device to the network, and the request message includes indication information. The access and mobility management function retains the connection of the first path when registering to the network via the second path according to the indication information.

[0043] In a possible implementation, the access and mobility management function determines, according to the indication information, that the communication device supports accessing the network via two different paths simultaneously, or determines that the communication device hopes to access the network via two different paths simultaneously, so as to retain the connection of the first path when registering to the network via the second path.

[0044] In a possible implementation, the access and mobility management function obtains first information, and the first information indicates the radio access technology (RAT) type that allows the communication device to access the network.

[0045] In a possible implementation, the access and mobility management function receives the first information from the unified data management function or the policy control function.

[0046] In a possible implementation, the first information does not include the RAT type corresponding to the second radio access network device. The method further includes: the access and mobility management function sends a registration rejection message to the communication device via the second radio access network device, and the registration rejection message includes the first information.

[0047] In a possible implementation, the access and mobility management function determines whether the first information includes a combination of the RAT types corresponding to the first radio access network device and the second radio access network device. Select a suitable RAT type combination for the communication device through the network, so as to improve the network quality and stability. For example, select a combination of a terrestrial network (TN) and a non-terrestrial network (NTN). The communication device accessing the network via two paths of TN and NTN can ensure the network quality through TN and the network coverage through NTN.

[0048] In a possible implementation, the first information includes a combination of the RAT types corresponding to the first radio access network device and the second radio access network device. The method further includes: the access and mobility management function sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device. It can be understood that among the two paths

[0049] In a possible implementation, the first information does not include the combination of the RAT types corresponding to the first radio access network device and the second radio access network device. The method further includes: the access and mobility management entity sends a registration rejection message to the communication device through the second radio access network device, and the registration rejection message includes the first information; or, the access and mobility management entity sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device through the second radio access network device, and releases the connection of the first path. For example, the RAT types of the first path and the second path are the same, but according to the first information, one of the first path and the second path is retained, so the second path is retained and the first path is released.

[0050] The beneficial effects of the fourth aspect and certain implementations of the fourth aspect can be correspondingly referred to the descriptions related to the third aspect, and will not be elaborated here.

[0051] In a fifth aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a radio access network device, or can also be executed by a chip or circuit of the radio access network device. This application does not make any limitations in this regard. For the sake of description, the following will take the execution by the radio access network device as an example for illustration.

[0052] The method includes: the radio access network device receives a request message from the communication device. The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the request message includes indication information; the radio access network device obtains the identification information of the first access and mobility management entity; the radio access network device selects a second access and mobility management entity different from the first access and mobility management entity according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management entity and the indication information.

[0053] In a possible implementation, the request message includes access network parameters, where the access network parameters include indication information.

[0054] In a possible implementation, the identification information of the first access and mobility management entity is obtained from the request message.

[0055] The beneficial effects of the fifth aspect and certain implementations of the fifth aspect can be correspondingly referred to the descriptions related to the first aspect, and will not be elaborated here.

[0056] In a sixth aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a radio access network device, or can also be executed by a chip or circuit of the radio access network device. This application does not make any limitations in this regard. For the sake of description, the following will take the execution by the radio access network device as an example for illustration.

[0057] The method includes: The radio access network device receives a request message from a communication device. The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. The request message includes indication information, where the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously; The radio access network device selects an access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to the indication information. The access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity is an access and mobility management network element that supports maintaining a connection with the communication device through two different paths simultaneously.

[0058] In a possible implementation, the request message includes access network parameters, where the access network parameters include indication information.

[0059] In a possible implementation, the request message further includes identification information of a first access and mobility management network element. The method further includes: The radio access network device determines whether the first access and mobility management network element supports dual connectivity according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element; The radio access network device selects an access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to the indication information, including: When the first access and mobility management network element supports dual connectivity, the radio access network device selects the first access and mobility management network element to access the network.

[0060] In a possible implementation, when the first access and mobility management network element does not support dual connectivity, the radio access network device selects a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element to access the network. The beneficial effects of the above sixth aspect and certain implementations of the sixth aspect can be correspondingly referred to the description related to the third aspect, and will not be elaborated here.

[0061] In a seventh aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first network element, or can also be executed by a chip or circuit of the first network element. This application does not make a limitation on this. For the convenience of description, the following takes the execution by the first network element as an example for illustration.

[0062] The method includes: The first network element obtains indication information, where the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously; The first network element determines first information of the communication device according to the indication information, where the first information indicates a radio access technology (RAT) type that allows the communication device to access the network; The first network element sends the first information to an access and mobility management network element.

[0063] Based on the communication method provided in the seventh aspect, by the first network element notifying the communication device of the first information, the communication device can select a suitable RAT type from the first information to access, avoiding the UE selecting an RAT that cannot be accessed, and increasing the success rate of the UE accessing.

[0064] In a possible implementation, the first network element receives indication information from an access and mobility management network element; alternatively, the first network element obtains the indication information according to the subscription data of the communication device. For example, the subscription data of the communication device includes the indication information, or the subscription data indicates that the communication device supports dual connectivity.

[0065] In a possible implementation, the first network element is a unified data management network element or a policy control network element.

[0066] In a ninth aspect, a communication device is provided, which includes: modules for performing any of the communication methods performed by the communication device described above, such as a transceiver module and a processing module. Among them, the transceiver module is used to perform corresponding message sending and receiving actions, and the processing module can be used to perform all actions except sending and receiving information.

[0067] Optionally, the communication device described in the ninth aspect may further include a storage module, which stores programs or instructions. When the processing module executes the programs or instructions, the communication device can perform any of the communication methods performed by the terminal device described above.

[0068] In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided, which includes: modules for performing any of the communication methods performed by the radio access network device described above, such as a transceiver module and a processing module. Among them, the transceiver module is used to perform corresponding message sending and receiving actions, and the processing module can be used to perform all actions except sending and receiving information.

[0069] Optionally, the communication device described in the tenth aspect may further include a storage module, which stores programs or instructions. When the processing module executes the programs or instructions, the communication device can perform any of the communication methods performed by the radio access network device described above.

[0070] In an eleventh aspect, a communication device is provided, which includes: modules for performing any of the communication methods performed by the core network device described above, such as a transceiver module and a processing module. Among them, the transceiver module is used to perform corresponding message sending and receiving actions, and the processing module can be used to perform all actions except sending and receiving information.

[0071] Optionally, the communication device described in the eleventh aspect may further include a storage module, which stores programs or instructions. When the processing module executes the programs or instructions, the communication device can perform any of the communication methods performed by the core network device described above.

[0072] In an eleventh aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes: a processor configured to execute instructions stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform any of the communication methods performed by the communication device described in the above description.

[0073] In a possible design, the communication device may further include the memory. The memory may be integrated with the processor or may be provided separately.

[0074] In a twelfth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes: a processor configured to execute instructions stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform any of the communication methods performed by the access and mobility management network element described in the above description.

[0075] In a possible design, the communication device may further include the memory. The memory may be integrated with the processor or may be provided separately.

[0076] In a thirteenth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes: a processor configured to execute instructions stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform any of the communication methods performed by the radio access network device described in the above description.

[0077] In a possible design, the communication device may further include the memory. The memory may be integrated with the processor or may be provided separately.

[0078] In a fourteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including: a communication device configured to perform the methods in the first aspect to the third aspect and any possible implementation manners thereof.

[0079] Optionally, the communication system further includes an access and mobility management network element configured to perform the methods in the fourth aspect and any possible implementation manners thereof.

[0080] Optionally, the communication system further includes a radio access network device configured to perform the methods in the fifth aspect and the sixth aspect and any possible implementation manners thereof.

[0081] Optionally, the communication system further includes a unified data management network element or a policy control network element configured to perform the methods in the seventh aspect and any possible implementation manners thereof.

[0082] In a fifteenth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or code, and when the computer program or code runs on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the method in any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect and any possible implementation manner thereof described above.

[0083] In a sixteenth aspect, a chip is provided, including at least one processor. The at least one processor is coupled to a memory, and the memory is used to store a computer program. The processor is used to call and run the computer program from the memory, so that a device equipped with the chip system executes the method in any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect and any possible implementation manner thereof described above.

[0084] Wherein, the chip may include an input circuit or interface for sending information or data, and an output circuit or interface for receiving information or data.

[0085] In a seventeenth aspect, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product includes: computer program code, and when the computer program code runs on the computer, the method in any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect and any possible implementation manner thereof described above is executed. Description of the Drawings

[0086] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0087] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a registration process under a 3GPP access technology provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0088] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a globally unique temporary identifier provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0089] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a dual-connection architecture provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0090] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the process of communication method 500 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0091] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the process of communication method 600 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0092] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the process of communication method 700 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0093] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the process of communication method 800 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0094] Figure 9 It is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 900 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0095] Figure 10 It is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 1000 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0096] Figure 11 It is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 1100 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0097] Figure 12 It is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 1200 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0098] Figure 13 It is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 1300 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0099] Figure 14 It is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 1400 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0100] Figure 15 It is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 1000 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0101] Figure 16 It is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 2000 provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0102] Figure 17 It is a schematic structural diagram of a chip system 3000 provided by an embodiment of the present application. Detailed implementation manners

[0103] Next, the technical solutions in the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] The technical solutions provided by the present application can be applied to various communication systems, such as: New Radio (NR) systems, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, etc. The technical solutions provided by the present application can also be applied to device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine type communication (MTC), and Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems or other communication systems.

[0105] In a communication system, the part operated by an operator can be referred to as a public land mobile network (PLMN), or it can also be called an operator network, etc. A PLMN is a network established and operated by the government or its approved operator for the purpose of providing public land mobile communication services. It is mainly a public network where mobile network operators (MNOs) provide mobile broadband access services for users. In the embodiments of this application, the PLMN described specifically can be a network that meets the standards of the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP), abbreviated as 3GPP network. The 3GPP network generally includes but is not limited to the 5th-generation (5G) mobile communication network, the 4th-generation (4G) mobile communication network, and other future communication systems, such as the 6th-generation (6G) mobile communication network, etc.

[0106] For ease of description, in the embodiments of this application, the PLMN or 5G network will be used as an example for illustration.

[0107] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a network architecture. Taking the 5G network architecture based on the service-based architecture (SBA) in the non-roaming scenario defined in the 3GPP standardization process as an example. As Figure 1 shown, this network architecture can include a terminal device part, a data network (DN) part, and an operator network PLMN part. Among them, the operator network PLMN part can include but is not limited to the (radio) access network ((R)AN) 120 and the core network (CN) part.

[0108] The functions of the network elements of each part will be briefly described below.

[0109] The terminal device part may include UE 110, which is a device that provides voice and / or data connectivity to users. This UE 110 may also be referred to as a user equipment UE. The UE 110 in this application is a device with wireless transceiver functions and can communicate with one or more CN devices via an access network device (or also referred to as an access device) in the (wireless) access network (R)AN 120. UE 110 may also be referred to as an access terminal, terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile device, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, user agent, or user device, etc. UE 110 can be deployed on land, including indoor or outdoor, handheld or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water (such as a ship, etc.); it can also be deployed in the air (such as an airplane, balloon, satellite, etc.). UE 110 can be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, smart phone, mobile phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), etc. Alternatively, UE 110 can also be a handheld device with wireless communication functions, a computing device, or other devices connected to a wireless modem, a vehicle-mounted device, a wearable device, a drone device, or a terminal in the Internet of Things, vehicle-to-everything network, any form of terminal in a 5G network and future networks, a relay user equipment, or a terminal in a future evolved 6G network, etc. Among them, the relay user equipment can be, for example, a 5G residential gateway (RG). For example, UE 110 can be a virtual reality (VR) terminal, an augmented reality (AR) terminal, a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in unmanned driving, a wireless terminal in remote medical care, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, etc. The terminal device here refers to a 3GPP terminal. The embodiments of this application do not limit the type or category of the terminal device. For ease of description, the following of this application takes UE as an example to represent the terminal device for illustration.

[0110] (R)AN 120 may include one or more access network elements or access network devices. The interface between the access network device and the terminal device may be the Uu interface (or also referred to as the air interface, that is, the messages exchanged between the access network device and the terminal device may be called air interface messages). Of course, in future communications, the interface name may remain unchanged or may be replaced by other names, and this application does not limit this. (R)AN 120 is a device that provides wireless communication functions for UE 110, a node or device that can connect the terminal device to the wireless network, and may also be referred to as a network device. (R)AN 120 can be regarded as a sub-network of the operator network and is an implementation system between the service node in the operator network and UE 110. For example, UE 110 can be connected to the service node of the operator network through (R)AN 120 to obtain the services provided by this service node. (R)AN 120 includes but is not limited to: the next generation node base station (gNB) in the 5G system, the evolved node B (eNB) in the long term evolution (LTE), the radio network controller (RNC), the node B (NB), the base station controller (BSC), the base transceiver station (BTS), the home base station (for example, home evolved node B, or home node B, HNB), the base band unit (BBU), the transmitting and receiving point (TRP), the transmitting point (TP), the small base station device, the mobile switching center, or the network device in the future network, etc.The access network device may also be a module or unit that completes the functions of a base station. For example, it includes a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). In a possible network architecture, the CU can be used to support communications under protocols such as radio resource control (RRC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), and service data adaptation protocol (SDAP). The DU can be used to support communications under the radio link control (RLC) layer protocol, medium access control (MAC) layer protocol, and physical layer protocol. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technologies and specific device forms adopted by the access network device. In systems using different radio access technologies, the names of the devices with the functions of the access network device may be different. For the convenience of description, in all embodiments of this application, the device that provides wireless communication functions for the above UE 110 is collectively referred to as the access network device or simply RAN for short. It should be understood that the specific types of the access network device are not limited herein.

[0111] The CN part may include, but is not limited to, the following network functions (NFs): user plane function (UPF) 130, policy control function (PCF) 131, unified data management function (UDM) 132, authentication server function (AUSF) 133, access and mobility management function (AMF) 134, and session management function (SMF) 135.

[0112] The data network DN 140 is usually a network located outside the operator's network, such as a third-party network or an Internet service.

[0113] The NF functions included in the CN are further briefly described below.

[0114] 1. The UPF 130 is a gateway provided by the operator and serves as the gateway for communication between the operator's network and the DN 140. The network functions of the UPF 130 include functions related to the user plane such as packet routing and transmission, packet detection, service usage reporting, quality of service (QoS) handling, uplink packet detection, and downlink packet storage. In future communication systems, the user plane function network element may still be a UPF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0115] 2. The PCF 131 is a control plane function provided by the operator, mainly supporting the provision of a unified policy framework to control network behavior, providing policy rules to the control layer network functions, and being responsible for obtaining user subscription information related to policy decisions. Exemplarily, the PCF 133 can be divided into two PCFs with different functions, namely UE-PCF and AMF-PCF. Among them, the UE-PCF can be used to generate the UE's policy (UE policy), that is, the policy sent to the UE 110, and the sending path is: UE-PCF--->AMF--->UE. At this time, the AMF 134 does not parse the content of the UE policy, that is, the AMF 134 transparently transmits the UE policy. The AM-PCF can be used to generate the AM policy, that is, the policy for access management sent to the AMF 134, and the sending path is: UE-PCF--->AMF. Further, the AMF 134 can also send some or all of the access management policies to the RAN 120. In future communication systems, the policy control function network element may still be a PCF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0116] 3. The UDM 132 is a control plane function provided by the operator, responsible for storing information such as the subscriber permanent identifier (SUPI), the generic public subscription identifier (GPSI) of the subscribed users in the operator network, and the credential, etc. Among them, the SUPI will be encrypted first during the transmission process, and the encrypted SUPI is called the subscription concealed identifier (SUCI). The information stored by the UDM network function 132 can be used for the authentication and authorization of the UE 110 to access the operator network. Among them, the subscribed users of the above operator network can specifically be users who use the services provided by the operator network, such as users who use the SIM cards of China Telecom, or users who use the SIM cards of China Mobile, etc. The credential of the above subscribed users can be the long-term key stored in the mobile phone chip card or the small file stored with information related to the encryption of the mobile phone chip card, etc., for authentication and / or authorization. In the future communication system, the unified data management functional network element can still be the UDM network element, or, there can also be other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0117] 4. The AUSF 133 is a control plane function provided by the operator, usually used for primary authentication, that is, the authentication between the terminal device 110 (subscribed user) and the operator network. After receiving the authentication request initiated by the subscribed user, the AUSF network function 133 can authenticate and / or authorize the subscribed user through the authentication information and / or authorization information stored in the UDM network function 132, or generate the authentication and / or authorization information of the subscribed user through the UDM network function 132. The AUSF network function 133 can feedback the authentication information and / or authorization information to the subscribed user. In the future communication system, the authentication server functional network element can still be the AUSF network element, or, there can also be other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0118] 5. The AMF 134 is a control plane network function provided by the operator network, responsible for the access control and mobility management of the UE 110 to access the operator network, such as including functions such as mobile status management, allocating user temporary identity identifiers, authenticating and authorizing users, etc. In the future communication system, the access management network element can still be the AMF network element, or, there can also be other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0119] 6. The SMF 135 is a control plane network function provided by the operator network, responsible for managing the protocol data unit (PDU) sessions of the UE 110 (including the establishment, modification, and release of sessions), for the selection and reselection of user plane function network elements, the allocation of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses for terminal devices, quality of service (QoS) control, etc. Among them, the PDU session is a channel for transmitting PDUs, and the PDU session is responsible for establishment, maintenance, deletion, etc. by the SMF network function 135. The SMF network function 135 includes session management (such as session establishment, modification, and release, including tunnel maintenance between the user plane function UPF 130 and the (R)AN 120), selection and control of the UPF network function 130, service and session continuity (SSC) mode selection, roaming, and other session-related functions. In future communication systems, the session management function network element can still be the SMF network element, or it can also have other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0120] It can be understood that the above network elements or functions can be either physical entities in hardware devices, software instances running on dedicated hardware, or virtualized functions instantiated on a shared platform (such as a cloud platform). Simply put, an NF can be implemented by hardware or by software.

[0121] Figure 1 Among them, Npcf, Nudm, Nausf, Namf, Nsmf, N1, N2, N3, N4, and N6 are interface sequence numbers. Exemplarily, the meanings of the above interface sequence numbers can be referred to the meanings defined in the 3GPP standard protocol, and this application does not limit the meanings of the above interface sequence numbers. It should be noted that Figure 1 The interface names between the various network functions in are only an example. In specific implementations, the interface names of this system architecture may also be other names, which are not limited in this application. In addition, the names of the messages (or signaling) transmitted between the above network elements are also only an example and do not impose any limitations on the functions of the messages themselves.

[0122] It should be noted that in Figure 1In the architecture shown, the interface between the radio access network and the 5G core network is called the NG interface (not shown in the figure). gNBs are connected to each other through the Xn interface, and gNBs are connected to the 5GC through the NG interface. Among them, the NG interface includes the NG-C interface and the NG-U interface. The NG-C interface is a control plane interface, connecting the gNB and the AMF, and transmitting control plane data. The NG-U interface is a user plane interface, connecting the gNB and the UPF, and transmitting user plane data. The main functions of the NG interface include but are not limited to: paging, UE context connection, UE mobility management, PDU session management, NAS signaling transmission, etc.

[0123] It should be understood that the above network architecture 100 is only described from the perspective of a service-based architecture. In this service-based architecture, the PLMN can, according to specific scenario requirements, orderly combine some or all network functions as needed to achieve the customization of network capabilities and services, so as to deploy dedicated networks for different services, that is, to implement 5G network slicing. The network slicing technology enables operators to respond to customer needs more flexibly and quickly, and supports the flexible allocation of network resources.

[0124] For ease of description, in the embodiments of the present application, network functions (such as UPF130... SMF135) are collectively / abbreviated as NF, that is, the NF described later in the embodiments of the present application can be replaced by any network function. In addition, in the embodiments of the present application, UE110 is called UE, that is, the UE described later in the embodiments of the present application can be replaced by a terminal device. Figure 1 Only some network functions are schematically described, and the NF described later is not limited to Figure 1 the network functions shown.

[0125] It should be understood that Figure 1 the AMF, SMF, UPF, AUSF, PCF, and UDM shown in it can be understood as network elements in the core network for implementing different functions. For example, they can be combined into network slices as needed. These core network elements can be independent devices or integrated into the same device to implement different functions. The present application does not limit the specific form of the above network elements.

[0126] It should also be understood that the above naming is only defined for the convenience of distinguishing different functions and should not constitute any limitation to the present application. The present application does not exclude the possibility of using other names in 5G networks and future other networks. For example, in 6G networks, some or all of the above network elements may continue to use the terms in 5G, or other names may be used.

[0127] For ease of understanding the embodiments of the present application, the following explains some terms in the embodiments of the present application to facilitate the understanding of those skilled in the art.

[0128] 1) Access type and access technology:

[0129] The access type includes 3GPP access type and non-3GPP access type.

[0130] The 3GPP access type includes, but is not limited to, the following access technologies: LTE access technology (corresponding to 4G cellular network), NR access technology (corresponding to 5G cellular network), satellite access technology defined by 3GPP, or subsequent evolved cellular access technology; among which the satellite access technology defined by 3GPP can be further divided into low-earth orbit satellite, medium-earth orbit satellite, and geostationary satellite. A 3GPP access network means that the access type of the access network is the 3GPP access type (the access type can also be referred to as the access mode).

[0131] The non-3GPP access type includes, but is not limited to, the following access technologies: untrusted non-3GPP access technology (such as accessing the core network through a wireless access node purchased personally), trusted non-3GPP access technology (such as accessing the core network through a wireless access node deployed by an operator), wireline access technology (such as Broadband Forum (BBF) access technology, Cable access technology, etc.), IEEE802.11 access technology, non-3GPP access technology connected through a standalone non-public network (SNPN). For example, the access modes adopting non-3GPP access technology can include wireline, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), Bluetooth, ZigBee, etc. A non-3GPP access network means that the access type of the access network is the non-3GPP access type.

[0132] 2) Determination process of access type and access technology.

[0133] When the UE executes the registration process, it sends an AN message to the access network device.

[0134] The access network device can be a 3GPP access network device (such as RAN) or a non-3GPP access network device. For example, non-3GPP access network devices include: non-3GPP interworking function (N3IWF) network element, trusted non-3GPP gateway function (TNGF) network element, trusted WLAN interworking function (TWIF) network element, or wireline access gateway function (W-AGF) network element. W-AGF can also be referred to as AGF.

[0135] The access network device sends a registration request message to the AMF. After receiving the registration request message, the AMF can determine the access type and access technology of the UE registration based on the information of the access network device.

[0136] In one example, the AMF determines the access type of the UE registration based on the access network device. For example: If the registration request message is sent or forwarded by a 3GPP access network device (such as RAN), the AMF can determine that the access type of the UE registration is 3GPP access type. For another example, if the registration request message is sent or forwarded by a non-3GPP access network device, such as sent by N3IWF, TNGF, TWIF, W-AGF, etc., the AMF can determine that the access type used by the UE is non-3GPP access type.

[0137] In another example, the AMF can further determine the access technology of the UE registration. For example, for the 3GPP access type, the AMF can further determine the access technology as LTE access technology, NR access technology, satellite access technology, etc. based on the radio access network device information, such as the Global RAN Node IDs associated with the N2 interface and the tracking area indicated by the radio access network device. For another example, when the 5G access network node has a Global N3IWF Node ID, the access technology is non-trusted non-3GPP. When the 5G access network node has a Global TNGF Node ID or a Global TWIF Node ID, the access technology is trusted non-3GPP, etc.

[0138] In a multi-connection scenario, after the UE has registered multiple times, the access types registered by the UE can be one or more. For example, in a dual-connection scenario, the UE can register twice through the 3GPP access type. In this case, the access type registered by the UE is the 3GPP access type. Another example is that the UE registers for the first time through the 3GPP access type and the second time through the non-3GPP access type. In this case, the access types registered by the UE are the 3GPP access type and the non-3GPP access type.

[0139] 3) Registration procedures, including but not limited to: registration procedures under 3GPP access technology, registration procedures under non-trusted non-3GPP access technology, registration procedures under trusted non-3GPP access technology, and registration procedures under wired access technology.

[0140] When the UE first accesses the network, the UE initiates an Initial Registration procedure. In addition, the UE can also initiate other types of registration. For example, when the UE needs to initiate a registration procedure due to mobility, the UE initiates a Mobility Registration Update procedure; when the UE is in a registered state and initiates a registration procedure due to the expiration of the periodic registration update timer, the UE initiates a Periodic Registration Update procedure; when the UE is in a service-restricted state and initiates a registration procedure, the UE initiates an Emergency Registration procedure.

[0141] The following takes the initial registration procedure as an example for introduction.

[0142] As Figure 2 introduces a possible registration procedure of the UE under 3GPP access technology in the current technology.

[0143] Step 201: The UE sends an access network (AN) message to the RAN.

[0144] Among them, the AN message includes AN parameters and a Registration Request message. The AN parameters contain parameter information for the RAN to select the AMF. For example, the parameter information can include one or more of the following: PLMN identifier, network identification (NID), etc. The registration request message includes a RegistrationType, UE identifier, etc. Among them, the registration type can be an initial registration. The UE identifier can be an SUCI.

[0145] Step 202: The RAN selects the AMF according to the AN parameters.

[0146] This AN parameter is the AN parameter in the AN message in step 201.

[0147] Step 203: The RAN sends the registration request message received in step 201 to the AMF selected in step 202.

[0148] Step 204: The UE, AMF, AUSF, UDM, etc. interact to perform the authentication and security procedure.

[0149] For example, first, the AMF selects the AUSF and sends an authentication request message to the AUSF. The AUSF performs the authentication process on the UE and obtains authentication data or information for authentication from the UDM. After the authentication is completed, the AUSF sends a security anchor functionality (SEAF) key to the AMF. The AMF can derive the NAS security key based on this SEAF key.

[0150] Then, the AMF indicates to the UE that the authentication is successful. For example, the AMF sends a NAS Security Mode Command to the UE to activate NAS security. This NAS Security Mode Command includes an EAP-Success indication, indicating that the EAP-authentication and key agreement (EAP-AKA’) authentication performed by the core network is successful. The RAN forwards the NAS security mode command sent by the AMF to the UE and sends the NAS Security Mode Complete message sent by the UE to the AMF.

[0151] After the authentication is successful, the AMF creates a UE context, which includes information about the N2 connection between the RAN and the AMF for this UE.

[0152] Step 205: The AMF interacts with the UDM to obtain the subscribed data of the UE.

[0153] The AMF can obtain relevant service information based on the subscribed data of the UE, such as the service level of the UE, service traffic limit, service fee, etc. These information can be used to control the service access and restrictions of the UE, as well as for charging and settlement, etc.

[0154] Step 206: The AMF allocates a 5G-GUTI for the UE and sends a NAS Registration Accept message to the RAN.

[0155] Among them, the 5G-GUTI is a UE identifier, which can also be understood as the temporary identity identifier of the UE. The AMF serving the UE allocates the 5G-GUTI for the UE. The 5G-GUTI can be used for subsequent registration or session establishment processes. The NAS Registration Accept message includes the 5G-GUTI. For example, as Figure 3 shown, the 5G-GUTI consists of two parts: the globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the 5G temporary mobile subscriber identity (5G-TMSI). Among them, the GUAMI includes the Mobile Country Code (MCC), the Mobile Network Code (MNC), the AMF Region ID, the AMF set ID, and the AMF Pointer. Among them, the combination of MCC and MNC can uniquely identify the PLMN. There are multiple regions in the PLMN. The AMF Region ID can identify a region in the PLMN. There are multiple AMF sets in a region. The AMF set ID can identify an AMF set in a region. There are multiple AMFs in an AMF set. The AMF pointer can identify an AMF in an AMF set. The 5G-TMSI is a temporary identifier allocated by the AMF for the UE and is unique within the AMF. Therefore, it can be understood that the GUAMI can uniquely determine an AMF, and the 5G-TMSI can uniquely determine the UE within the scope of the AMF.

[0156] In addition, the above AMF set ID, AMF Pointer, and 5G-TMSI can constitute the 5G system temporary mobile subscriber identity (5G S-temporary mobile subscriber identity, 5G-S-TMSI). It can be understood that 5G-S-TMSI is a simplified 5G-GUTI. Since the base station is fixedly deployed at its own location and will not be connected to AMFs in multiple regions. For example, the base stations deployed by China Mobile in Shanghai will only be connected to the AMFs in the Shanghai area and will not be connected to the AMFs in Beijing. Therefore, when the RAN selects an AMF, it can ignore the AMF Region ID. By providing the simplified 5G-S-TMSI for the RAN to select the AMF, the radio interface signaling messages can be made shorter, improving the radio interface efficiency and saving signaling resources. Therefore, 5G-S-TMSI can also be used to identify an AMF. That is to say, 5G-S-TMSI is also a kind of identification information of an AMF.

[0157] Exemplarily, the NAS registration acceptance message can be included in the N2 message.

[0158] Step 207: The RAN forwards the NAS registration acceptance message sent by the AMF to the UE.

[0159] Since the UE obtains the 5G-GUTI in the initial registration process, in subsequent non-initial registration processes, the UE initiates the registration process by sending an access network message to the RAN. The UE identifier in the registration request message in Step 201 is the 5G-GUTI, and the AN parameters can include the identification information of the AMF, such as GUAMI or 5G-S-TMSI, etc. The RAN needs to select an appropriate AMF to serve the UE. Since there is already an AMF serving the UE before, the RAN will preferentially select the AMF that served the UE before.

[0160] The UE obtains the 5G-GUTI in the initial registration process. The 5G-GUTI is the temporary identity identifier of the UE and is assigned by the AMF serving the UE. When the UE subsequently registers to the network, it can provide the identification information of this AMF (such as 5G-S-TMSI or GUAMI) in the access network message, and the RAN can select according to the AMF indicated by the 5G-S-TMSI or GUAMI.

[0161] When the identification information of the AMF provided by the UE is inappropriate (for example, the originally connected AMF fails, or the UE moves out of the original range, resulting in the base station being unable to connect to the original AMF), the RAN needs to reselect an AMF. When the RAN selects an AMF, it will refer to one or more of the following factors: the AMF set indicated by the GUAMI, the requested slice, the local operator policy, and other information. Exemplarily, when the RAN selects an AMF considering the requested slice, the UE will carry the slice information required for the request when sending a registration request to the RAN, and the RAN side will also save the slice information supported by the AMF (exemplarily, the RAN can obtain the slice information supported by the AMF when initially establishing a connection with the AMF). Thus, the RAN will select an AMF that can meet the slice requirements requested by the UE.

[0162] In addition, the AMF reselected by the RAN can find the original AMF based on the identification information of the AMF provided by the UE and request the UE context from the original AMF.

[0163] 5) Dual-connection architecture:

[0164] Figure 4 Exemplarily, a dual-connection architecture applicable to the embodiments of the present application is given. For example, the dual-connection can be called Dual steer. In this architecture, the UE accesses the same network through two connections of the 3GPP access type at the same time. Among them, the two 3GPP access network devices corresponding to the 3GPP access type can be the RAN. For example, the UE can use a SIM card and access the same PLMN through two different RANs at the same time. Exemplarily, the two connections of the 3GPP access type correspond to two paths. As Figure 4 shown, the first path is for the UE to connect to the network through RAN1 and the AMF. As described above, to establish the second path, the UE initiates registration through RAN2. And the registration initiated through RAN2 is a non-initial registration. Therefore, when the original AMF in the first path is available, RAN2 will select the original AMF according to the identification information of the AMF carried by the UE. Therefore, the second path is for the UE to connect to the network through RAN2 and the AMF. Among them, the connection between the UE and the AMF is the N1 connection, and the connection between the AMF and the RAN is the N2 connection.

[0165] It should be noted that accessing the same network through two connections of the 3GPP access type at the same time does not mean that the UE must send or receive data through both paths at the same time, but means that the UE can either access the network through the first path and send or receive data, or access the network through the second path and send or receive data.

[0166] In this application, dual connectivity refers to accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements. A UE supporting dual connectivity means that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. An AMF supporting dual connectivity means that the AMF supports maintaining a connection with the UE through two different paths simultaneously. It should be noted that in this application, the names of dual connectivity or multi-connectivity can be further extended as follows:

[0167] 1: Dual / multiple radio capability, which indicates the ability of the UE to support accessing the network through dual / multiple radio access networks.

[0168] 2: Dual / multiple 3GPP radio access technology (dual / multiple 3GPP RAT), which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple 3GPP radio access technologies.

[0169] 3: Dual / multiple steer, which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple steered paths.

[0170] 4: Dual / multiple 3GPP access, which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple 3GPP paths.

[0171] 5: Dual / multiple 3GPP access type, which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple 3GPP access types.

[0172] 6: Dual / Multiple connectivity, which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple different paths.

[0173] 7: Dual / multiple registration, which indicates that the UE registers to the network through dual / multiple different paths.

[0174] 8: Same access type, which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple paths of the same access type.

[0175] 9: Same radio access technology (same RAT), which indicates that the UE accesses the network through dual / multiple paths of the same radio access technology.

[0176] 10: same access network. The same access network indicates that the UE accesses the same network through dual / multiple paths.

[0177] 11: dual / multiple registration within the same access type. Dual / multiple registration within the same access type indicates that the UE registers to the network through dual / multiple paths of the same access type.

[0178] 6) N2 connection:

[0179] When the UE accesses the network, the connection between the RAN and the AMF is the N2 connection. In the single-connection scenario, the UE connects to the network through a path of the RAN and the AMF. In a mobile scenario, for example, when the UE changes the connected RAN due to mobility, the UE sends the 5G-GUTI to the new RAN. The new RAN will select the AMF that previously served the UE. For relevant descriptions, refer to the selection of the AMF when not initially registering to the network. The new RAN establishes a new N2 connection with this AMF. The AMF can determine that the UE context has been saved based on the 5G-GUTI, and further determine that an N2 connection has been established for this UE previously. Therefore, it will consider the new N2 connection with the new RAN as a replacement for the old N2 connection. Thus, the AMF will initiate a process to release the N2 connection, that is, release the old N2 connection. This process allows the AMF to manage and release the logical NG connection corresponding to the UE. The AMF can send a UE context release indication (UE CONTEXT RELEASE COMMAND) to the old RAN to trigger this process. This message can contain the AMF UE NGAP ID and the RAN UENGAP ID. After receiving this message, the old RAN releases the signaling and user-plane data resources and replies to the AMF with a UE context release complete (UE CONTEXT RELEASE COMPLETE) message.

[0180] When the UE passes through Figure 4When the dual-connection shown accesses the same network, when the UE registers on two paths according to the existing technology, the two different RANs in the two paths will select the same AMF to access the network. For example, the AMF first creates a UE context on the first path and establishes an N2 connection with RAN1 for this UE. However, when the UE registers on the second path by connecting RAN2 and this AMF, the AMF will determine that the UE context has been saved according to the UE identifier, and thus consider that the registration on the second path is to replace RAN1 on the first path. Therefore, the N2 connection on the first path will be released. That is, the AMF can only maintain one N2 connection at the same time. Therefore, the UE cannot access the same network through two different paths at the same time.

[0181] To solve the above problems, the following method is proposed in this embodiment.

[0182] As Figure 5 shown, a method 500 applicable to this application is introduced. Through method 500, the UE can access the same network through dual-connection. The dual-connection is two connections of 3GPP access types, corresponding to two paths of different radio access network devices. The method includes the following steps:

[0183] Step 501: The UE accesses the network through the first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1.

[0184] It should be noted that before the UE accesses the network through the first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1, the UE registers to the network through the first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1. During the registration process, AMF1 creates the UE context. The UE context includes information about the connection (N2 connection) of the first path between AMF1 and RAN1. When the registration is successful, it can be understood that the UE can access the network through the first path.

[0185] For the relevant description of registering to the network, refer to the registration process of the UE under 3GPP access technology as Figure 2 shown, which will not be elaborated here.

[0186] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the registration process of the UE for the first path can be an initial registration or a non-initial registration. When the registration type of the UE registering to the network through RAN1 is an initial registration, the UE sends SUCI. During the registration process, AMF1 sends 5G-GUTI to the UE. The 5G-GUTI includes the identification information of the AMF, which is used for the UE to select this AMF in the non-initial registration process. When the registration type of the UE registering to the network through RAN1 is a non-initial registration, the UE sends 5G-GUTI, and RAN1 selects the corresponding AMF according to the identification of the AMF.

[0187] Step 510: The UE sends an AN message to RAN2.

[0188] In a possible implementation, the AN parameters in the AN message include indication information and the identification information of AMF1 (such as GUAMI or 5G-S-TMSI). The indication information is used for RAN2 to select an AMF different from AMF1. Exemplarily, the indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the UE hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. Or, the indication information indicates to select a different AMF. After receiving the indication information, RAN2 combines the indication information and the identification information of AMF1, and then selects an AMF different from AMF1.

[0189] Optionally, the AN message includes dual-split indication information, which is used for the UDM to save two sets of contexts for the UE. Exemplarily, the dual-split indication information indicates that the UE is in a dual-connection state, or indicates to save two sets of contexts. The dual-split indication information can be carried in the AN parameters in the AN message or in the registration request message, or coexist with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message. The AN parameters include the dual-split indication information. RAN2 can obtain the dual-split indication information and send it to the AMF through the N2 message. The registration request message includes the dual-split indication information. The dual-split indication information can be a field in the registration type. For example, the dual-split indication information is a newly added registration type. Exemplarily, the name of the newly added registration type can be DualSteer Registration. Here, the name is not limited. This registration type, DualSteer Registration, is used to indicate to the network that this registration is for the second path of the dual-connection registration for the UE. When the dual-split indication information coexists with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message, both the RAN and the AMF can parse the dual-split indication information.

[0190] This embodiment is described by taking the UE selecting RAN2 and requesting to register to the network by sending an AN message to RAN2 as an example. It should be noted that RAN2 is different from RAN1.

[0191] It should be noted that when the UE determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, step 510 is executed.

[0192] In a possible implementation, the UE determines that it can access the network through two paths based on multi-connection information (such as DualSteer information), or determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. However, at this time, the UE only has one path to access the network through RAN1. Therefore, the UE can register to the network through the second path, that is, execute step 510. Exemplarily, the multi-connection information can be obtained by the UE according to the service. For example, the current path cannot meet the rate requirement of a certain video service. Therefore, the UE can determine to use multiple paths to access the network according to this service, and thus execute step 510.

[0193] In a possible implementation, the UE can obtain multi-connection information (such as DualSteer information) based on the user's operation instruction. For example, the user can turn on the DualSteer switch on the UE. Further, the UE can enter the DualSteer state according to the user's operation instruction.

[0194] In another possible implementation, the UE can obtain multi-connection support information (such as DualSteer information) based on pre-configured information. For example, the UE is pre-configured with DualSteer support information in the factory configuration, such as the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously.

[0195] Step 511: RAN2 selects an AMF.

[0196] In a possible implementation, when the AN parameters in the AN message include indication information and the identification information of AMF1 (such as GUAMI or 5G-S-TMSI), RAN2 selects an AMF other than AMF1 according to the indication information and the identification information of AMF1.

[0197] In this embodiment, it is illustrated by taking RAN2 selecting AMF2 and the path connecting RAN2 and AMF2 as the second path as an example. The AMF2 selected by RAN2 and AMF1 are different AMFs.

[0198] Step 512: RAN2 sends a registration request message to AMF2.

[0199] Optionally, the registration request message further includes dual-split indication information.

[0200] In a possible implementation, RAN2 sends a next generation application protocol (NGAP) message to AMF2, which can also be referred to as an N2 message. Among them, the N2 message includes the registration request message.

[0201] Step 513: AMF2 triggers the authentication and security procedure between the UE, AUSF, and UDM.

[0202] In a possible implementation, AMF2 does not have the UE context, so it creates a UE context for the UE. Exemplarily, AMF2 determines that there is no such UE context based on the UE identifier (such as 5G-GUTI).

[0203] For relevant descriptions, refer to the relevant explanations in Step 204 above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0204] Step 514: AMF2 sends a registration request (Nudm_UECM_Registration request) to the UDM.

[0205] This registration request is used for AMF2 to register with the UDM as the AMF serving the UE, and AMF2 registers the UE context with the UDM.

[0206] In a possible implementation, the registration request also includes dual-split indication information. After the UDM obtains this dual-split indication information, the UDM will save two sets of the UE context. It can be understood that when the UDM saves the second set of context for the same UE, it will not send a deregistration to AMF1 in the first path and will not release the first path.

[0207] Step 515: The UDM sends a registration response to AMF 2.

[0208] Step 516: AMF2 sends a Registration Accept message to the UE through RAN2.

[0209] The UE receives the registration accept message and thus considers the registration successful in the second path, and can then access the network through the second path.

[0210] When the registration of the second path is completed, the UE accesses the same network through both the first path and the second path, and the access types corresponding to the first path and the second path are 3GPP access types.

[0211] Through the steps of Method 500, in the dual-connection scenario, the UE sends indication information for selecting a different AMF to RAN2, enabling RAN2 to select a different AMF from the one in the first path. Thus, the different AMFs respectively maintain an N2 connection for the UE, and the UE can then access the same network through two different paths for two different AMFs.

[0212] The following is combined with the appendix Figure 6, a method 600 for a communication device to access the same network through two paths simultaneously provided by an embodiment of the present application is introduced. The communication device can be a terminal device (such as Figure 1 UE 110 in

[0213] ), or a chip (system) that can be disposed in the terminal device. That is to say, method 600 can be executed by the terminal device or by the chip (system) in the terminal device. Figure 6 As shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process

[0214] Step 601: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element.

[0215] It should be noted that before the communication device accesses the network, the communication device registers to the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element. During the registration process, the first access and mobility management network element will establish a connection for the first path of the communication device with the first radio access network device. Exemplarily, it can be an N2 connection. When the registration is successful, it can be understood that the communication device can access the network through the first path.

[0216] The relevant description of the communication device registering through the first path can refer to step 501.

[0217] In a possible implementation, before the communication device accesses the network through the first path, the communication device obtains the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. Exemplarily, the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element can be 5G-GUTI, GUAMI, or 5G-S-TMSI, etc.

[0218] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives a registration acceptance message from the first access and mobility management network element through the first path, and the registration acceptance message includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element.

[0219] Step 602: The communication device sends a request message.

[0220] The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. The request message includes indication information, and the indication information is used for the second radio access network device to select a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element.

[0221] It should be noted that before the communication device sends a request message, the communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, and the communication device determines that it has already accessed the network through the first path. Exemplarily, the communication device can determine that it hopes to access the network through two paths according to the multi-connection information. For the description related to multi-connection, reference can be made to step 510.

[0222] In a possible implementation, the indication information may not be in the request message. When the communication device registers to the network through the second radio access network device, it can send an indication message to the second radio access network device through a separate message.

[0223] In a possible implementation, the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two different access and mobility management network elements. Or, the indication information indicates to select different access and mobility management network elements.

[0224] In a possible implementation, the indication information is the SUCI of the communication device. It can be understood that the SUCI can implicitly indicate that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or implicitly indicate that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. It indicates to select different access and mobility management network elements. Exemplarily, the AN parameter in the AN message includes the SUCI and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. Therefore, the AN message received by the second radio access network device includes the SUCI and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. The second radio access network device can determine that the communication device is not initially registering but sends the SUCI according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. Therefore, it can be determined that the communication device hopes to access the network through dual connection.

[0225] In a possible implementation, the request message is an AN message. The communication device sends an AN message to the second radio access network device. The AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the AN message includes indication information. For the convenience of description, this embodiment takes the AN message as an example for illustration.

[0226] In a possible implementation, the AN message includes AN parameters, and the indication information is included in the AN parameters.

[0227] In another possible implementation, the indication information is in a field that can be parsed by the radio access network device in the AN message. Exemplarily, it can exist side by side with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message.

[0228] Optionally, the communication device also sends the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. Exemplarily, when the communication device sends an access network AN message to the second radio access network device, the AN message also includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. In a possible implementation, the AN message includes AN parameters, and the AN parameters include indication information and the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element.

[0229] Step 603: The second radio access network device obtains the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element and the indication information.

[0230] In a possible implementation, the second radio access network device receives a request message from the communication device, and the request message includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element and the indication information. Exemplarily, the second radio access network device receives an AN message from the communication device, and the AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the AN message includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element and the indication information. Further, the AN parameters in the AN message include the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element and the indication information.

[0231] In another possible implementation, the second radio access network device receives the indication information from the communication device, and receives the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element from the core network or the first radio access network device. For example, the UDM in the core network. Exemplarily, the second radio access network device receives an AN message from the communication device, and the AN message includes the indication information. The second radio access network device requests the information of the communication device on the first path, such as the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element, according to the indication information, so that the second radio access network device receives the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element.

[0232] Step 604: The second radio access network device selects a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element.

[0233] In a possible implementation, the second radio access network device selects a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element and the indication information.

[0234] Step 605: The second radio access network device sends a registration request message to the second access and mobility management network element.

[0235] In one possible implementation, the AN message includes AN parameters and a registration request message, and the second radio access network device sends the registration request message to the second access and mobility management network element. The registration request message is used to request registering the communication device to the network through a second path connecting the second access and mobility management network element and the second radio access network device.

[0236] Step 606: The communication device accesses the network through a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management network element.

[0237] It should be noted that the second access and mobility management network element sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device through the second radio access network device. The communication device considers the registration successful upon receiving the registration acceptance message, and thus can access the network through the second path.

[0238] After the registration of the second path is completed, the communication device accesses the same network through the first path and the second path simultaneously. The access types corresponding to the first path and the second path are 3GPP access types.

[0239] It should be noted that accessing the same network through the first path and the second path simultaneously does not mean that the communication device must send or receive data through both paths at the same time. Instead, it means that the communication device can either access the network through the first path and send or receive data, or access the network through the second path and send or receive data.

[0240] Through the steps of method 600, in a dual-connection scenario, the communication device sends indication information for selecting different access and mobility management network elements to the second radio access network device, enabling the second radio access network device to select a different access and mobility management network element from that in the first path. Thus, the different access and mobility management network elements respectively maintain an N2 connection for the communication device, and further the communication device can access the same network through two different paths for two different access and mobility management network elements.

[0241] As Figure 7 shown, a method 700 applicable to this application is introduced. Through method 700, the UE can access the same network through dual-connection. The dual-connection is two connections of 3GPP access type, corresponding to two paths of different radio access network devices. The method includes the following steps:

[0242] Step 701: The UE accesses the network through a first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1.

[0243] For relevant descriptions, refer to the relevant explanations in step 501 above Figure 5 and will not be elaborated here.

[0244] Step 710: The UE sends an AN message to RAN2.

[0245] In a possible implementation, the AN message includes AN parameters and a registration request message. The registration request message includes information for generating a UE context different from that of the first path for the second path. In this embodiment, the information for generating a UE context different from that of the first path for the second path is taken as an example of the SUCI carried in the registration request message, that is, the UE identifier carried in the registration request message is the SUCI. It can be understood that although the UE obtains the 5G-GUTI allocated by AMF1 through the first path, the UE identifier used in the sent registration request is the SUCI. Optionally, the registration type is an initial registration. It should be noted that the AN parameters may include the identification information of the AMF in the first path, such as GUAMI, 5G-S-TMSI, or 5G-GUTI. That is to say, it is allowed for RAN2 to select the previous AMF, that is, AMF1, according to the identification information of the AMF. When the UE identifier in the registration request message is the SUCI, even if the same AMF is selected, the AMF will treat it as a new UE to establish a new connection.

[0246] Optionally, the AN message includes dual-split indication information, which is used for the UDM to save two sets of contexts for the UE. Exemplarily, the dual-split indication information indicates that the UE is in a dual-connection state, or indicates to save two sets of contexts. The dual-split indication information may be carried in the AN parameters or the registration request message in the AN message, or exist side by side with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message. The AN parameters include the dual-split indication information, and RAN2 can obtain the dual-split indication information and send it to the AMF through the N2 message. The registration request message includes the dual-split indication information. The dual-split indication information may be a field in the registration type. For example, the dual-split indication information is a newly added registration type. Exemplarily, the name of the newly added registration type may be DualSteer Registration. The name is not limited here. This registration type, DualSteer Registration, is used to indicate to the network that this registration is for the UE to perform dual-connection registration for the second path. When the dual-split indication information exists side by side with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message, both the RAN and the AMF can parse the dual-split indication information.

[0247] It should be noted that when the UE determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, step 710 is executed. Exemplarily, before the UE sends the AN message, the UE determines that it can access the network through two paths, and the UE determines that it has accessed the network through the first path. Exemplarily, the UE can determine that it can access the network through two paths according to the multi-connection information. For the relevant description of multi-connection, reference can be made toFigure 5 Step 510 in

[0248] Step 711: RAN2 selects an AMF.

[0249] In a possible implementation, for the case where the registration request message includes a SUCI. At this time, the registration request message in the AN message does not include the identification information of the AMF (such as GUAMI or 5G-S-TMSI), then RAN2 refers to Figure 2 the method in step 202 in to select a suitable AMF. It should be noted that the RAN cannot parse the content in the registration request message. Therefore, the RAN's selection of the AMF has nothing to do with whether the AMF identification information is carried in the registration request message. The RAN selects the AMF according to the information in the AN parameters.

[0250] It should be noted that the AMF selected by RAN2 in this embodiment can be AMF1 in the first path, or AMF2 different from AMF1. In this embodiment, taking RAN2 selecting AMF1 and the path connecting RAN2 and AMF1 as the second path as an example for illustration.

[0251] Step 712: RAN2 sends a registration request message to AMF1.

[0252] In a possible implementation, for the case where the registration request message includes a SUCI, the identification information of the UE in the registration request message is SUCI (the SUCI included in the registration request message corresponding to the second path can be referred to as the second SUCI in the later text of this embodiment).

[0253] It should be noted that the identification information reported by the UE obtained by the AMF here is the second SUCI, rather than information such as 5G-GUTI obtained in the first path. Since the UE randomly generates a SUCI each time, the second SUCI sent by the UE in the second path is different from the first SUCI sent in the first path. Therefore, the AMF cannot associate the UE context of the UE in the first path through the identification information of the UE, that is, the second SUCI. That is to say, AMF1 will consider that the UE and the UE in the first path are different UEs according to the second SUCI. Therefore, after completing the following step 713, a second UE context will be created for this UE.

[0254] Optionally, the registration request message further includes dual-split indication information.

[0255] Step 713: AMF triggers an authentication and security procedure between the UE, AUSF, and UDM.

[0256] For the relevant description, please refer to the relevant instructions in step 204 above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0257] As described above, since AMF1 will consider that the UE is a different UE from the UE on the first path based on the second SUCI, after the authentication and security process is completed, a second UE context will be created for this UE.

[0258] It should be noted that in the authentication and security process, AMF sends the second SUCI to UDM through AUSF, and UDM will decrypt the second SUCI to obtain the SUPI of this UE. There is only one SUPI for the subscription data of the same UE. For example, one SIM card corresponds to one SUPI, but there may be multiple SUCI after encrypting the SUPI.

[0259] Step 714: AMF1 sends a registration request to UDM.

[0260] This registration request is used for AMF1 to register with UDM as the AMF serving the UE, and AMF1 registers the UE context with UDM.

[0261] In a possible implementation, the registration request also includes dual-split indication information. After UDM obtains this dual-split indication information, UDM saves two sets of contexts for the UE. It can be understood that when UDM saves the second set of contexts for the same UE, it will not send a deregistration to AMF1 in the first path and will not release the first path.

[0262] In another possible implementation, UDM can decrypt the SUPI based on the second SUCI of the UE coming through the second path, and determine that the UE accesses the network through two paths according to the same SUPI of the UE identification in the first path and the second path. Therefore, a second UE context is saved for this UE. Exemplarily, the UE context saved by UDM is sent by AMF1 to UDM.

[0263] Step 715: UDM sends a registration response to AMF1.

[0264] Step 716: AMF1 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE through RAN2.

[0265] The UE receives the registration acceptance message and thus considers that the registration on the second path is successful, and can then access the network through the second path.

[0266] When the registration on the second path is completed, the UE accesses the same network through the first path and the second path at the same time, and the access types corresponding to the first path and the second path are 3GPP access types.

[0267] It should be noted that in step 711 above, if RAN2 selects AMF2 different from AMF1, the subsequent steps refer to Figure 5 steps 512 - 516 in it. Thus, AMF2 and AMF1 respectively maintain an N2 connection for the UE, and further the UE can access the same network through two different paths for two different AMFs.

[0268] Through the steps of method 700, in the dual - connection scenario, the UE includes information (such as SUCI) used to generate a UE context different from the first path for the second path in the registration request message to be sent to the AMF. Then, even if the RAN on the second path selects the same AMF as the first path, the AMF considers it as another UE based on this information, thereby creating a new UE context for the UE. Thus, the AMF retains two N2 connections respectively through two sets of UE contexts, and further the UE can access the same network through different paths corresponding to two N2 connections for the same AMF.

[0269] Next, in combination with the attached Figure 8 , a method 800 for a communication device to access the same network through two paths simultaneously provided by an embodiment of the present application is introduced. The communication device can be a terminal device (such as Figure 1 UE 110 in it), or a chip (system) that can be set in the terminal device. That is to say, method 800 can be executed by the terminal device or by the chip (system) in the terminal device.

[0270] As Figure 8 shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process, the following steps can be included:

[0271] Step 801: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element.

[0272] It should be noted that before the communication device accesses the network, the communication device registers to the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element. During the registration process, the first access and mobility management network element will establish a connection for the first path with the first radio access network device. Exemplarily, it can be an N2 connection. When the registration is successful, it can be understood that the communication device can access the network through the first path.

[0273] The relevant description of the communication device registering through the first path can refer to step 501 in method 500.

[0274] In a possible implementation, before the communication device accesses the network through the first path, the communication device obtains the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element. Exemplarily, the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element may be 5G-GUTI, GUAMI, 5G-S-TMSI, etc.

[0275] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives a registration acceptance message from the first access and mobility management network element through the first path, and the registration acceptance message includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element.

[0276] Step 802: The communication device sends a request message.

[0277] The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the request message includes information for the access and mobility management network element to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path. It should be noted that the access and mobility management network element may be the first access and mobility management network element in the first path, or a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element.

[0278] It should be noted that before the communication device sends the request message, the communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths at the same time, and the communication device determines that it has accessed the network through the first path. Exemplarily, the communication device may determine that it hopes to access the network through two paths according to the multi-connection information. For the relevant description of multi-connection, reference may be made to step 510.

[0279] In a possible implementation, the request message is an AN message. The communication device sends an AN message to the second radio access network device. The AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the AN message includes information for the access and mobility management network element to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path.

[0280] In a possible implementation, the information for the access and mobility management network element to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path is in a field that the access and mobility management network element can parse in the AN message. For example, it may exist side by side with the AN parameter and the registration request message in the AN message. Another example is that the AN message includes a registration request message, and the registration request message includes information for the access and mobility management network element to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path. Further, the second radio access network device sends the registration request message to the second access and mobility management network element.

[0281] In a possible implementation, the communication device sends a request message to the second access and mobility management network element through the second radio access network device, and the request message is a registration request message.

[0282] In another possible implementation, the information for the access and mobility management entity to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path may not be in the request message. During the process of the communication device registering to the network through the second radio access network device, the information for the access and mobility management entity to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path can be sent to the second radio access network device through a separate message.

[0283] In one possible implementation, the information for the access and mobility management entity to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management entities. Alternatively, the information for the access and mobility management entity to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path indicates to create the context of the communication device.

[0284] In one possible implementation, the information for the access and mobility management entity to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path is the SUCI, that is, the identifier of the communication device carried in the registration request message is the SUCI. It can be understood that although the communication device has a 5G-GUTI assigned by the first access and mobility management entity here, the identifier of the communication device used in the registration request message sent by the communication device is the SUCI. Optionally, the registration type is an initial registration. Therefore, the second access and mobility management entity cannot associate the context of the communication device through the identifier information of the communication device, that is, the SUCI. The second access and mobility management entity will consider that the communication device is a different communication device from the communication device on the first path according to the SUCI, and thus will create a second communication device context for this communication device.

[0285] In one possible implementation, the communication device initially registers to the network using the first SUCI. The communication device can register to the network through the first path through this initial registration process, or can also register to the network through the first path through other non-initial registration processes. However, regardless of whether the first path corresponds to the initial registration process, the second SUCI used to register to the network through the second path is different from the first SUCI used for the initial registration.

[0286] It should be noted that the communication device can encrypt the SUPI to obtain the SUCI. The SUCI obtained by the communication device each time it encrypts the same SUPI is different. For example, the first encryption results in the first SUCI, and the second encryption results in the second SUCI. However, the SUPI obtained after decrypting the first SUCI and the second SUCI subsequently is the same.

[0287] In a possible implementation, before the communication device sends a request message to the second radio access network device, the communication device generates a second SUCI.

[0288] In a possible implementation, the communication device generates a second SUCI according to the information that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements. That is to say, the communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, and only then will it generate another SUCI during the process of registering to the network through the second path, so that the network side thinks this is the registration process of another UE.

[0289] Step 803: The access and mobility management network element creates a context for the communication device.

[0290] The access and mobility management network element can be the first access and mobility management network element in the first path, or a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element. The access and mobility management network element creates a context for the communication device according to the information used to generate a context for the communication device different from that in the first path.

[0291] In this embodiment, the information used to generate a context for the communication device different from that in the first path is taken as an example of SUCI for illustration, and there are the following two cases:

[0292] 1. When the access and mobility management network element is the first access and mobility management network element in the first path, the first access and mobility management network element has created a first set of contexts for the communication device for the first path. The first set of contexts includes the N2 connection information between the first access and mobility management network element and the first radio access network device. Subsequently, when receiving the SUCI of the communication device from the second radio access network device, since the SUCI sent by the communication device in the second path is different from the SUCI sent in the first path, the access and mobility management network element will consider the communication device to be different from the communication device in the first path according to the different SUCI, and thus will create a second set of contexts for the communication device. The second set of contexts includes the N2 connection information between the access and mobility management network element and the second radio access network device.

[0293] 2. When the access and mobility management network element is a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element, the second access and mobility management network element creates a context for the communication device. The second access and mobility management network element determines that there is no context for the communication device according to the received SUCI, and thus creates a context for the communication device.

[0294] Step 804: The communication device accesses the network through a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the access and mobility management entity.

[0295] It should be noted that the access and mobility management entity sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device through the second radio access network device. The communication device receives the registration acceptance message and thus considers the registration on the second path to be successful, and then can access the network through the second path.

[0296] After the registration of the second path is completed, the communication device accesses the same network through the first path and the second path at the same time. The access types corresponding to the first path and the second path are 3GPP access types.

[0297] Through the steps of method 800, in the scenario of dual connectivity, the communication device sends information to the access and mobility management entity for generating the context of the communication device different from the first path to the access and mobility management entity. Then, even if the access and mobility management entity on the second path is the same as that on the first path, the access and mobility management entity considers it to be another communication device based on this information, and thus creates a new context of the communication device for the communication device. Therefore, when the two paths are for the same access and mobility management entity, the access and mobility management entity retains two N2 connections through two sets of communication device contexts respectively. Furthermore, the communication device can access the same network through two different paths for the same access and mobility management entity.

[0298] As Figure 9 shown, a method 900 applicable to this application is introduced. Through method 900, the UE can access the same network through dual connectivity. The dual connectivity is two connections of 3GPP access type, corresponding to two paths of different radio access network devices. The method includes the following steps:

[0299] Step 901: The UE accesses the network through a first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1.

[0300] For related descriptions, refer to the relevant explanations in step 501 above, which will not be elaborated here. Figure 5 in step 501 above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0301] Step 910: The UE sends an AN message to RAN2.

[0302] In a possible implementation, the AN message includes indication information for retaining the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0303] In a possible implementation, the registration request message in the AN message includes indication information. For example, the indication information is a newly added registration type, which is a field in the registration type. Exemplarily, the name of the newly added registration type can be DualSteer Registration, but the name is not limited here. This registration type, DualSteerRegistration, is used to indicate to the network that this registration is for the second path of dual-connection registration for the UE.

[0304] In another possible implementation, the registration request message contains an additional indication information, which indicates to the network that the UE is currently registering for the second path of dual-connection. At this time, the registration type of the UE can be an initial registration. The AMF can determine that the registration is for the second path of dual-connection registration for the UE by judging that the registration type of the UE is an initial registration and according to the indication information of the UE.

[0305] It should be noted that when the UE determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, step 910 is executed. Exemplarily, before the UE sends the AN message, the UE determines that it can access the network through two paths, and the UE determines that it has already accessed the network through the first path. Exemplarily, the UE can determine that it can access the network through two paths according to the multi-connection information. For the relevant description of multi-connection, reference can be made to Figure 5 step 510 in

[0306] Step 911: RAN2 selects an AMF.

[0307] In a possible implementation, when selecting an AMF, RAN2 refers to Figure 2 the method in step 202 in

[0308] In another possible implementation, when RAN2 selects an AMF, it can consider whether the AMF supports dual connectivity. An AMF that supports dual connectivity can be understood as an AMF that can reserve two path connections for the same UE, or it can be understood that the AMF maintains a connection with the UE through two paths simultaneously. The indication information is in a field that can be parsed by RAN in the AN message. For example, in the AN parameters, or it coexists with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message. RAN2 selects an AMF that supports dual connectivity based on the indication information. Since the UE obtains the 5G-GUTI allocated by AMF1 during the first registration, the UE can obtain the identification information of AMF1 based on the 5G-GUTI. When the UE performs the second registration, it can carry the identification information of AMF1 (such as GUAMI or 5G-S-TMSI) in the AN parameters. RAN2 determines whether AMF1 supports dual connectivity based on the indication information and the identification information of AMF1. It should be noted that RAN will save the information on whether the AMF supports dual connectivity. Exemplarily, RAN determines the capability information on whether AMF1 supports dual connectivity based on the identification information of AMF1, so as to determine whether AMF1 supports dual connectivity. The selection of AMF by RAN2 can be divided into the following two cases:

[0309] Case 1: If AMF1 supports maintaining two N2 connections for the same UE simultaneously and RAN2 can access it, then RAN2 selects AMF1 to serve the UE.

[0310] Case 2: If AMF1 does not support maintaining two N2 connections for the same UE simultaneously, or RAN2 cannot connect to AMF1. For example, when the UE accesses from NTN, due to the large satellite coverage area, the RAN2's gateway station on the ground may be in a different area from AMF1, and RAN2 and AMF1 cannot be directly connected. Therefore, RAN2 will select an AMF2 different from AMF1 according to its own area.

[0311] For Case 2, the subsequent steps of RAN2 selecting an AMF2 different from AMF1 can refer to Steps 512 - 516 in Method 500, which will not be elaborated here.

[0312] In this embodiment, it is illustrated by taking RAN2 selecting AMF1 and the path connecting RAN2 and AMF1 as the second path as an example.

[0313] Step 912: RAN2 sends a registration request message to AMF1.

[0314] The registration request message includes a 5G-GUTI and indication information. Among them, the 5G-GUTI is obtained by the UE on the first path and is used by the AMF to associate the UE context created when the UE registers from the first path. The indication information is used to indicate that the second path of the AMF is for the UE to implement dual connectivity, and it is not necessary to replace the connection of the first path of the UE, or to indicate that the UE supports dual connectivity, or to indicate that the UE hopes to access the network through dual connectivity, or to indicate that the connection of the first path is retained when the connection of the second path is established.

[0315] The registration request message in step 912 is the second registration request message of the same UE received by AMF1. AMF1 determines the UE context of the UE according to the 5G-GUTI of the UE in the registration request message, and adds the information of the N2 connection of the second path to the UE context information. It can be understood that the UE context includes the information of the N2 connections of the first path and the second path for the UE, that is, the AMF can reserve two N2 connections for the same UE, or it can be understood that the AMF maintains the N2 connection with the communication device through two paths at the same time.

[0316] In a possible implementation, RAN2 sends an NGAP message to AMF1, which can also be called an N2 message. Among them, the N2 message includes the registration request message.

[0317] Step 913 (optional): AMF triggers the authentication and security procedure between the UE, AUSF, and UDM.

[0318] For relevant descriptions, refer to the relevant explanations in step 204 above, and details will not be elaborated here.

[0319] It should be noted that when AMF1 is selected by RAN2 in step 911, step 913 can be skipped. When RAN2 selects an AMF2 different from AMF1, step 913 is executed.

[0320] Step 914: AMF1 sends a registration request to the UDM.

[0321] Step 915: The UDM sends a registration response to AMF1.

[0322] Step 916: AMF1 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE through RAN2.

[0323] Steps 914 - 916 refer to the relevant explanations in steps 714 - 716 of the above method 700, and details will not be elaborated here.

[0324] The following combines with the appendix Figure 10, a method 1000 for a communication device to access the same network through two paths simultaneously provided by an embodiment of the present application is introduced. The communication device may be a terminal device (such as the UE 110 in Figure 1 ), or a chip (system) that can be disposed in the terminal device. That is to say, the method 1000 may be executed by the terminal device, or by the chip (system) in the terminal device.

[0325] As Figure 10 shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process, the following steps may be included:

[0326] Step 1001: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management entity.

[0327] It should be noted that before the communication device accesses the network, the communication device registers to the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management entity. During the registration process, the first access and mobility management entity will establish a connection of the first path with the first radio access network device. Exemplarily, it may be an N2 connection. When the registration is successful, it can be understood that the communication device can access the network through the first path.

[0328] The relevant description of the communication device registering through the first path can refer to step 501.

[0329] In a possible implementation, before the communication device accesses the network through the first path, the communication device obtains the identification information of the first access and mobility management entity. Exemplarily, the identification information of the first access and mobility management entity may be 5G-GUTI, GUAMI, or 5G-S-TMSI, etc.

[0330] In a possible implementation, the communication device receives a registration acceptance message from the first access and mobility management entity through the first path, and the registration acceptance message includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management entity.

[0331] In a possible implementation, during the process of the communication device registering to the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management entity, the communication device sends an AN message to the first radio access network device, and the AN message includes indication information. The indication information indicates that the communication device supports dual connection, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through dual connection, or indicates to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0332] In a possible implementation, the indication information is in a field that the first radio access network device can parse in the AN message. Exemplarily, the indication information can be in the AN parameters, or coexist with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message. The first radio access network device selects an access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to the indication information.

[0333] In a possible implementation, during the process of the communication device accessing the network through the first path, the communication device sends information indicating that the communication device supports dual connectivity to the first radio access network. The first radio access network device selects an access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to this information, and then performs Figure 2 steps 203-207 therein, so that the communication device completes the registration process and can then access the network through the first path.

[0334] Step 1002: The communication device sends a request message.

[0335] The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. The request message includes indication information, which is used to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0336] It should be noted that before the communication device sends the request information, the communication device determines that it can access the network through two paths, and the communication device determines that it has already accessed the network through the first path. Exemplarily, the communication device can determine that it can access the network through two paths according to the multi-connection information. For the relevant description of multi-connection, reference can be made to Figure 5 step 510 therein.

[0337] In a possible implementation, the indication information may not be in the request message. During the process of the communication device registering to the network through the second radio access network device, the indication information can be sent to the second radio access network device through a separate message.

[0338] The communication device sends the indication information to the access and mobility management network element through the second radio access network device. It should be noted that the access and mobility management network element can be the first access and mobility management network element in the first path, or a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element.

[0339] In a possible implementation, the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements. Or, it indicates to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0340] In one possible implementation, the request message is an AN message. The communication device sends an access network AN message to the second radio access network device. The AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, and the AN message includes indication information. For example, the AN message includes a registration request message, and the registration request message includes the indication information. Exemplarily, the second radio access network device sends the registration request message to the access and mobility management entity. For another example, the indication information is in a field in the AN message that can be parsed by the access and mobility management entity. Exemplarily, the indication information can coexist with AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message.

[0341] In one possible implementation, the registration request message includes a registration type. Among them, the indication information is a field in the registration type. Exemplarily, the field in the registration type is DualSteer Registration. It can be understood that a new registration type is added. Here, the name is not limited. This registration type is DualSteerRegistration, which is used to indicate that this registration is for the second path of dual connection registration of the communication device.

[0342] In still another possible implementation, the communication device sends a request message to the second access and mobility management entity through the second radio access network device. The request message is a registration request message. The registration request message includes indication information.

[0343] In one possible implementation, the indication information may not be in the request message. During the process of the communication device registering to the network through the second radio access network device, the indication information can be sent to the second radio access network device through a separate message.

[0344] Step 1003 (optional): The second radio access network device selects an access and mobility management entity that supports dual connection.

[0345] It should be noted that the access and mobility management entity that supports dual connection can be understood as that this access and mobility management entity can reserve two path connections for the same communication device, or it can be understood that the access and mobility management entity maintains the connection with the communication device through two paths at the same time.

[0346] In one possible implementation, the second radio access network device selects an access and mobility management entity that supports dual connection according to the indication information. It should be noted that in this case, the indication information also needs to be in a field in the AN message that can be parsed by the second radio access network device. Exemplarily, the indication information can be in the AN parameters, or coexist with the AN parameters and the registration request message in the AN message.

[0347] In a possible implementation, the second radio access network device determines whether the first access and mobility management network element supports dual connectivity based on the identification information and indication information of the first access and mobility management network element. When the first access and mobility management network element supports dual connectivity, the second radio access network device selects the first access and mobility management network element to access the network. Alternatively, when the first access and mobility management network element does not support dual connectivity, the second radio access network device selects a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element to access the network.

[0348] In another possible implementation, in step 1001, the first radio access network device of the first path selects a first access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to the indication information. Therefore, the second radio access network device selects the first access and mobility management network element according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element.

[0349] It should be noted that step 1003 is optional. When step 1003 is not executed, the second radio access network device selects the access and mobility management network element with reference to Figure 2 step 202 in

[0350] Step 1004: The second radio access network device sends a registration request message to the access and mobility management network element.

[0351] In a possible implementation, the AN message includes AN parameters and a registration request message, and the registration request message includes indication information. The second radio access network device sends the registration request message to the access and mobility management network element. The registration request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network through the second path connecting the access and mobility management network element and the second radio access network device.

[0352] It should be noted that the access and mobility management network element can be the first access and mobility management network element or the second access and mobility management network element.

[0353] Step 1005: The access and mobility management network element establishes a connection with the second radio access network device.

[0354] The access and mobility management network element can be the first access and mobility management network element in the first path or a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element. Therefore, there are the following two cases:

[0355] 1. When the access and mobility management network element is the first access and mobility management network element in the first path, the first access and mobility management network element has already established a connection for the communication device to the first path between the first access and mobility management network element and the first radio access network device. When receiving indication information from the second access and mobility management network element subsequently, the first access and mobility management network element establishes a connection for the communication device to the second path between the first access and mobility management network element and the second radio access network device according to the indication information, and retains the connection of the first path.

[0356] 2. When the access and mobility management network element is a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element, the second access and mobility management network element establishes a connection to the second radio access network device.

[0357] In a possible implementation, the access and mobility management network element sends indication information to the unified data management network element, and the indication information is used for the unified data management network element to save two sets of contexts for the communication device.

[0358] Step 1006: The communication device accesses the network through the second path connecting the second radio access network device and the access and mobility management network element.

[0359] It should be noted that the access and mobility management network element sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device through the second radio access network device. The communication device considers that the registration on the second path is successful when receiving the registration acceptance message, and thus can access the network through this path.

[0360] After the registration on the second path is completed, the communication device accesses the same network through the first path and the second path at the same time, and the access types corresponding to the first path and the second path are 3GPP access types.

[0361] Through the steps of Method 1000, in the dual-connection scenario, the communication device sends indication information for retaining the connection of the first path to the access and mobility management network element when establishing the connection of the second path, so that the access and mobility management network element retains the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path for the communication device according to this information. Thus, when the same access and mobility management network element is in both paths, the access and mobility management network element retains the connections of both paths respectively, and further the communication device can access the same network through two different paths for the same access and mobility management network element.

[0362] The following combines with the appendix Figure 11, introduce a method 1100 for a UE to obtain a RAT type during the registration process provided by an embodiment of this application. The method 1100 is applicable to the case where the AMFs in the first path and the second path are different. For example, it is applicable to the above-mentioned method 500, method 600, method 800, method 900, or method 1000.

[0363] As Figure 11 shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process, it may include the following steps:

[0364] Step 1101: The UE accesses the network through the first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1.

[0365] It should be noted that step 1101 can refer to steps 501 - 515 in the above-mentioned method 500.

[0366] Step 1102: AMF2 obtains the first information.

[0367] The first information is used to determine whether the UE can access the network through the current path. Exemplarily, the first information indicates the radio access technology RAT type that allows the UE to access the network, or the first information indicates a combination of RAT types that allows the UE to access the network through two paths. For example, the first information is TN, and in this case, the UE is allowed to access the network through TN. Another example is that the first information is a combination of RAT types on two paths: terrestrial communication network and non-terrestrial communication network, or 5G and 6G, etc. In this case, the UE is allowed to access the network through a path of TN and a path of NTN, or the UE is allowed to access the network through a path of 5G and a path of 6G.

[0368] In a possible implementation, the AMF obtains the first information from the UDM. For example, the AMF sends indication information to the UDM, and this indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The UDM can determine the first information of the UE according to this indication information and send the first information to AMF2. Another example is that the UDM determines that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously according to the subscription data of the UE and sends the first information to AMF2. For example, the first information is the RAT type that allows the UE to access the network, or a combination of RAT types that allows the UE to access the network through two paths, such as a combination of RAT types being TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc.

[0369] In another possible implementation, the AMF obtains the first information from the PCF. Exemplarily, the AMF sends indication information to the PCF, and the indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The PCF may determine the first information of the UE according to the indication information and send the first information to the AMF2. For another example, the PCF obtains the subscription data of the UE from the UDM, determines that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously according to the subscription data of the UE, and sends the first information to the AMF2. For example, the first information is the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network, or a combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access the network through two paths, such as the combination of RAT types being TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc. Exemplarily, the AMF sends an Access management (AM) policy request message to the PCF, and the AM policy request message includes indication information. The PCF replies to the AMF with an AM policy, and the AM policy includes the first information.

[0370] In a possible implementation, the UDM or the PCF determines the first information according to the indication information and the RAT type of the first path. For example, the UDM or the PCF determines that the combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access is 5G and 6G, and the UDM or the PCF determines that the RAT type of the first path is 5G, so as to determine that the first information is 6G, that is, the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network through the second path is 6G.

[0371] Step 1103: The AMF2 determines whether the UE is allowed to access.

[0372] In a possible implementation, the AMF2 determines whether the UE meets the requirements of the first information according to the RAT type to which the UE is currently connected, so as to determine whether to allow the UE to access. It should be noted that the determination of whether to allow the UE to access here refers to whether to allow the UE to access the network through dual connection. In other words, when the UE does not meet the requirements of the first information, it can still access the network through single connection in the prior art.

[0373] In a possible implementation, when the first information is the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network, the AMF2 determines whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the second path. Exemplarily, the first information is allowing the UE to access the network through 5G, and the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 6G. At this time, the AMF2 may determine that the UE is not allowed to access. In another example, the first information is allowing the UE to access the network through 5G and 6G, and the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 6G. At this time, the AMF2 may determine that the UE is allowed to access.

[0374] In another possible implementation, when the first information is a combination of RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, the AMF2 determines whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G, and the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 4G. In this case, the AMF2 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access.

[0375] Exemplarily, the above first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G and 6G. The AMF2 only needs to determine whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the second path. When the RAT type corresponding to the second path is 5G or 6G, the AMF2 can determine that the UE is allowed to access the network through the second path. When the RAT type corresponding to the second path is 4G, the AMF2 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access the network through the second path.

[0376] Exemplarily, the above first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of TN and NTN. The AMF2 on the second path and the AMF1 on the first path are different AMFs. If the UE currently hopes to access the network through dual connectivity and there is a UE context for this UE at both AMF1 and AMF2, the UDM can send the information of the other AMF1 of the UE to the AMF2, and the information of this AMF1 can be the UE context. For example, the RAT type on the AMF1 side is TN. The AMF2 compares the RAT types of the UE on the two paths with the first information sent by the network side to determine whether the currently selected RAT type meets the requirements of the network side. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of TN and NTN. The AMF2 determines that the UE has selected TN on both paths. Obviously, this does not meet the requirements of the network side, and it can be determined that the UE is not allowed to access. Or, the AMF2 determines that the UE has selected TN on the first path and NTN on the second path. In this case, it can be determined that the UE is allowed to access.

[0377] In another example, the above first information is to allow the UE to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G. AMF2 and AMF1 are different AMFs. If the UE currently hopes to access the network through dual connectivity and there is UE context for this UE at both AMF1 and AMF2, the UDM can send the information of the UE at the other AMF1 to AMF2, and the information of this AMF1 can be the UE context. For example, the RAT type on the AMF1 side is 5G. AMF2 compares the RAT types of the UE on the two paths and the first information sent by the network side to determine whether the currently selected RAT type meets the requirements of the network side. Exemplarily, the first information is to allow the UE to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G. AMF2 determines that the UE has selected 5G on both paths. Obviously, this does not meet the requirements of the network side at this time, and it can be determined that the UE is not allowed to access. Or, AMF2 determines that the UE has selected 5G on the first path and 6G on the second path. At this time, it can be determined that the UE is allowed to access. When AMF2 determines that the UE is allowed to access, step 1104a is executed.

[0378] When AMF2 determines that the UE is not allowed to access, step 1104b is executed to retain the previous first path or step 1104c is executed to retain the newly established second path. Further, AMF2 can also send the allowed RAT type to the UE, and the UE can subsequently select the corresponding RAT according to the RAT type allowed by the network side. Exemplarily, the allowed RAT type is NTN, and the UE can select a cell with the RAT type of NTN according to the RAT type carried in the broadcast message of the cell.

[0379] Step 1104a: AMF 2 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE.

[0380] Among them, the registration acceptance message includes 5G-GUTI.

[0381] The UE receives the registration acceptance message and thus believes that it can access the network through this path.

[0382] Step 1104b: AMF2 sends a registration rejection message to the UE.

[0383] Optionally, the registration rejection message includes the first information, and the first information is used to indicate the RAT type that allows the UE to access the network.

[0384] Step 1104c: AMF2 accepts the second path and releases the first path.

[0385] In a possible implementation, AMF2 sends a registration acceptance message for the second path to the UE through RAN2, and releases the first path for the UE to access the network through RAN1 and AMF1.

[0386] In a possible implementation, the registration acceptance message of the second path includes the first information.

[0387] It should be noted that AMF2 determines that the UE is not allowed to access according to the combination of RAT types. A possible situation is that the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through the combination of 5G and 6G. The first path is of the 5G RAT type, and the second path is also of the 5G RAT type. Therefore, one of the paths can be retained. A possible implementation is to retain the second path and release the first path. Therefore, AMF2 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE through RAN2 and releases the first path.

[0388] In a possible implementation, AMF2 can send a request message to release the first path to the UDM, and then the UDM releases the first path connecting AMF1 and RAN1.

[0389] Through the steps of method 1100, the AMF obtains the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network from the UDM or the PCF, so that the AMF can determine whether the UE can access the network through the current path according to the RAT type of the current path and the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, and send the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network to the UE. Thus, the UE can access the network through the RAT types specified by the network. By notifying the UE of the RAT types allowed to access the network through the network, the UE selects a suitable RAT type to access, avoiding the UE selecting an RAT that cannot be accessed and increasing the success rate of the UE's access.

[0390] Next, in combination with the attached Figure 12 , a method 1200 for a UE to obtain RAT types in the registration process provided by an embodiment of the present application is introduced. Method 1200 is applicable to the case where the AMFs in the first path and the second path are the same, for example, applicable to the above method 700, method 800, method 900, or method 1000.

[0391] As Figure 12 shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process, the following steps may be included:

[0392] Step 1201: The UE accesses the network through the first path connecting RAN1 and AMF1.

[0393] It should be noted that step 1201 can refer to steps 701 - step 715 in the above method 700, or steps 901 - 915 in the above method 900.

[0394] Step 1202: AMF1 obtains the first information.

[0395] The relevant description of the first information can refer to step 1102, which will not be elaborated here.

[0396] In a possible implementation, the AMF obtains first information from the UDM. For example, the AMF sends indication information to the UDM, where the indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The UDM can determine the first information of the UE based on this indication information and send the first information to the AMF1. For another example, the UDM determines based on the subscription data of the UE that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously and sends the first information to the AMF1. For example, the first information is the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network, or a combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access the network through two paths. For example, the combination of RAT types is TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc.

[0397] In another possible implementation, the AMF obtains first information from the PCF. Exemplarily, the AMF sends indication information to the PCF, where the indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The PCF can determine the first information of the UE based on this indication information and send the first information to the AMF1. For another example, the PCF obtains the subscription data of the UE from the UDM, determines based on the subscription data of the UE that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, and sends the first information to the AMF1. For example, the first information is the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network, or a combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access the network through two paths. For example, the combination of RAT types is TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc. Exemplarily, the AMF1 sends an access management AM policy request message to the PCF, where the AM policy request message includes indication information, and the PCF replies with an AM policy to the AMF1, and the AM policy includes the first information.

[0398] In a possible implementation, the UDM or the PCF determines the first information based on the indication information and the RAT type of the first path. For example, the UDM or the PCF determines that the combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access is 5G and 6G, and the UDM or the PCF determines that the RAT type of the first path is 5G, thereby determining that the first information is 6G, that is, the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network through the second path is 6G. It can be understood that the UDM or the PCF determines the RAT type allowed for the second path based on the information of the first path as the first information.

[0399] Step 1203: The AMF1 determines whether the UE is allowed to access.

[0400] In a possible implementation, the AMF1 determines whether the UE meets the requirements of the first information based on the RAT type to which the UE is currently attached, so as to determine whether to allow the UE to access. It should be noted that the determination of whether to allow the UE to access here refers to whether to allow the UE to access the network through dual connectivity. In other words, when the UE does not meet the requirements of the first information, it can still access the network through single connectivity in the prior art.

[0401] In a possible implementation, when the first information is the RAT type that allows the UE to access the network, the AMF1 determines whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the second path. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G. The RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 6G. At this time, the AMF1 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access. In another example, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G and 6G. The RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 6G. At this time, the AMF1 can determine that the UE is allowed to access.

[0402] In another possible implementation, when the first information is a combination of RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, the AMF1 determines whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G. The RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 4G. At this time, the AMF1 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access.

[0403] Exemplarily, the above first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G and 6G. The AMF1 only needs to determine whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the second path. When the RAT type corresponding to the second path is 5G or 6G, at this time, the AMF1 can determine that the UE is allowed to access the network through the second path. When the RAT type corresponding to the second path is 4G, at this time, the AMF1 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access the network through the second path.

[0404] Exemplarily, the above first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of TN and NTN. If the UE currently hopes to access the network through dual connectivity, since there are two UE contexts for this UE at this AMF, this AMF can directly compare the RAT types of the UE on the two paths with the first information sent by the network side, and can determine whether the currently selected RAT type meets the requirements of the network. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of TN and NTN. The AMF1 determines that the UE has selected TN on both paths. Obviously, this does not meet the requirements of the network side at this time, and it can be determined that the UE is not allowed to access. Or, the AMF1 determines that the UE has selected TN on the first path and NTN on the second path. At this time, it can be determined that the UE is allowed to access.

[0405] In another example, the above first information is to allow the UE to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G. Both the second path and the first path are AMF1. If the UE currently wishes to access the network through dual connectivity, since there are two UE contexts for this UE at this AMF, this AMF can directly compare the RAT types of the UE on the two paths and the first information sent by the network side, and can determine whether the currently selected RAT type meets the requirements of the network. Exemplarily, the first information is to allow the UE to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G. If AMF1 determines that the UE has selected 5G on both paths, it obviously does not meet the requirements of the network side, and it can be determined that the UE is not allowed to access. Or, if AMF1 determines that the UE has selected 5G on the first path and 6G on the second path, it can be determined that the UE is allowed to access.

[0406] When AMF2 determines that the UE is allowed to access, step 1204a is executed.

[0407] When AMF2 determines that the UE is not allowed to access, step 1204b is executed to retain the previous first path or step 1204c is executed to retain the newly established second path. Further, AMF1 can also send the allowed RAT type to the UE, and the UE can subsequently select the corresponding RAT according to the RAT type allowed by the network side. Exemplarily, the allowed RAT type is NTN, and the UE can select a cell with the RAT type of NTN according to the RAT type carried in the broadcast message of the cell.

[0408] Step 1204a: AMF 1 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE.

[0409] Among them, the registration acceptance message includes 5G-GUTI.

[0410] The UE receives the registration acceptance message and thus believes that it can access the network through this path.

[0411] Step 1204b: AMF1 sends a registration rejection message to the UE.

[0412] Optionally, the registration rejection message includes the first information, and the first information is used to indicate the RAT type that allows the UE to access the network.

[0413] Step 1204c: AMF1 accepts the second path and releases the first path.

[0414] In a possible implementation, AMF1 sends a registration acceptance message for the second path to the UE through RAN2, and releases the first path for the UE to access the network through RAN1 and AMF1.

[0415] In a possible implementation, the registration acceptance message for the second path includes the first information.

[0416] It should be noted that AMF1 determines that the UE is not allowed to access according to the combination of RAT types. A possible situation is that the first information allows the UE to access the network through the combination of 5G and 6G. The first path is of the 5G RAT type, and the second path is also of the 5G RAT type. Therefore, one of the paths can be retained. A possible implementation is to retain the second path and release the first path. Therefore, AMF1 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE through RAN2 and releases the first path.

[0417] Through the steps of method 1200, the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network are obtained from the UDM or PCF by the AMF, so that the AMF can determine whether the UE can access the network through the current path according to the RAT type of the current path and the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, and send the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network to the UE. Thus, the UE can access the network through the RAT types specified by the network. By notifying the UE of the RAT types allowed to access the network through the network, the UE can select a suitable RAT type of RAN to access the network, avoiding the UE selecting a RAT that cannot be accessed and increasing the success rate of UE access.

[0418] The following Figure 13 introduces a method 1300 for a UE to obtain RAT types in the registration process provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0419] As Figure 13 shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process, in this example, the UE accesses the same network through dual connectivity. The dual connectivity is two connections of the 3GPP access type, corresponding to two paths of different radio access network devices. The difference from the above methods 1100 and 1200 is that the UE carries indication information when registering on the first path, so that the AMF obtains the first information according to the indication information when the UE registers through the first path. Method 1300 may include the following steps:

[0420] Step 1301: The UE sends a registration request message to AMF1 through RAN1.

[0421] For relevant descriptions, refer to the relevant explanations in the above steps 201-203, which will not be elaborated here.

[0422] Optionally, the registration request message further includes indication information, which indicates that the UE supports dual connectivity, or indicates that the UE hopes to access the network through dual connectivity, or indicates that the connection of the first path is retained when the connection of the second path is established. In this embodiment, the indication information is taken as an example of dual split indication information for illustration.

[0423] In a possible implementation, the UE sends an AN message to RAN1. The AN message includes AN parameters and a registration request message, and RAN1 sends the registration request message to the AMF. The AN parameters include dual-split indication information. RAN1 selects an AMF that supports dual connectivity according to the dual-split indication information. An AMF that supports dual connectivity can be understood as that the AMF can reserve two path connections for the same communication device, or it can be understood that the AMF maintains a connection with the UE through two paths simultaneously.

[0424] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the dual-split indication information can also be replaced by dual-connectivity capability information, which is used to let the network side know that the currently accessed UE has the dual-connectivity capability, and a second path connection can be established for the UE to implement dual connectivity subsequently.

[0425] In a possible implementation, the UE can obtain the dual-split indication information based on the user's operation instruction. For example, the user can turn on the dual-connectivity switch on the UE. Further, the UE can enter the dual-split state according to the user's operation instruction.

[0426] In another possible implementation, the UE can obtain the dual-split indication information based on pre-configured information. For example, the UE is pre-configured with information indicating that it supports dual splitting in the factory configuration.

[0427] In still another possible implementation, the UE can obtain the dual-split indication information according to the service. For example, the current path cannot meet the rate requirement of a certain video service, so the UE can determine to access the network using multiple paths according to this service.

[0428] Step 1302: AMF1 triggers an authentication and security procedure among the UE, AUSF, and UDM.

[0429] For the relevant description, refer to the relevant explanation in step 204 above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0430] Step 1303: AMF1 sends a registration request message to the UDM.

[0431] Optionally, the registration request message includes the dual-split indication information. This registration request message is used for AMF1 to register with the UDM as the AMF serving the UE.

[0432] In a possible implementation, after obtaining the dual-split indication information from the registration request message, the UDM determines that two different UE contexts can be saved for the UE in the UDM, and saves the first UE context for the UE.

[0433] In another possible implementation, the registration request message does not include dual split indication information. After obtaining the UE's identifier from the registration request, the UDM can obtain the UE's subscription data. According to the dual split capability information in the UE's subscription data, it is determined that two different UE contexts can be saved for the UE in the UDM, and the first UE context is saved for the UE.

[0434] Step 1304: The UDM sends a registration response message to AMF 1.

[0435] Optionally, the registration response message further includes first information for the UE to perform dual connection. The first information is used to determine whether the UE can access the network through the current path. Exemplarily, the first information indicates the radio access technology (RAT) type that allows the UE to access the network, or the combination of RAT types that allows the UE to access the network through two paths. For example, if the first information is TN, the UE is allowed to access the network through TN at this time. Another example is that the first information is a combination of RAT types on two paths: TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc. At this time, the UE is allowed to access the network through a TN path and an NTN path, or the UE is allowed to access the network through a 5G path and a 6G path.

[0436] In one possible implementation, the above first information is in the UE's subscription data. It can be understood that the UDM obtains the first information from the UE's subscription data.

[0437] Step 1305 (optional): AMF1 obtains the first information.

[0438] In one possible implementation, the AMF obtains the first information from the UDM. For example, AMF1 sends dual split indication information to the UDM, and the dual split indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The UDM can determine the first information of the UE according to the dual split indication information and send the first information to AMF1. Another example is that the UDM determines that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously according to the UE's subscription data and sends the first information to AMF1. For example, the first information is the RAT type that allows the UE to access the network, or the combination of RAT types that allows the UE to access the network through two paths, such as the combination of RAT types being TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc. Exemplarily, the AMF sends a subscription data request message to the UDM, the subscription data request message includes dual split indication information, and the UDM replies with subscription data to the AMF, and the subscription data includes the first information.

[0439] In another possible implementation, the AMF obtains the first piece of information from the PCF. Exemplarily, AMF1 sends dual split indication information to the PCF. The dual split indication information indicates that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously. The PCF can determine the first piece of information of the UE based on the dual split indication information and send the first piece of information to AMF1. For another example, the PCF obtains the subscription data of the UE from the UDM, determines that the UE supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously based on the subscription data of the UE, and sends the first piece of information to AMF1. For example, the first piece of information is the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network, or a combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access the network through two paths, such as the combination of RAT types being TN and NTN, or 5G and 6G, etc. Exemplarily, the AMF sends an AM policy request message to the PCF. The AM policy request message includes dual split indication information. The PCF replies to the AMF with an AM policy, and the AM policy includes the first piece of information.

[0440] In one possible implementation, the UDM or the PCF determines the first piece of information based on the dual split indication information and the RAT type of the first path. For example, the UDM or the PCF determines that the combination of RAT types allowing the UE to access is 5G and 6G, and the UDM or the PCF determines that the RAT type of the first path is 5G, thereby determining that the first piece of information is 6G, that is, the RAT type allowing the UE to access the network through the second path is 6G.

[0441] It should be noted that if there is no restriction on the RAT type to which the UE accesses, the first piece of information is not sent to the AMF, that is, step 805 is not executed.

[0442] Step 1306 (optional): AMF1 determines whether the UE is allowed to access.

[0443] In one possible implementation, AMF1 determines whether the UE meets the requirements of the first piece of information based on the RAT type to which the UE currently accesses, thereby determining whether to allow the UE to access. It should be noted that the determination of whether to allow the UE to access here refers to whether to allow access to the network through DualSteer. In other words, when the UE does not meet the requirements of the first piece of information, it can still access the network through single connection in the prior art.

[0444] Exemplarily, the above first piece of information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G and 6G. If the RAT type on the AMF1 side is 4G, it can be determined that the UE is not allowed to access. Or, if the RAT type on the AMF1 side is 5G, it can be determined that the UE is allowed to access. In one possible implementation, when AMF1 determines that the UE is not allowed to access, it can send a registration acceptance message to the UE and indicate that the UE is not allowed to use dual connection.

[0445] When AMF1 determines that UE access is allowed, step 1307a is executed, and AMF 1 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE. Further, AMF may also send a combination of allowed RAT types to the UE, and the UE can subsequently select the corresponding RAT according to the RAT types allowed by the network side. For example, currently it is restricted that the UE can access through the combination of TN and NTN, and the first path of the UE is TN, then when the UE selects RAN2, it only considers the RAN of NTN, so that the RAT type combination of the two paths meets the requirements of the network side. Exemplarily, the allowed RAT type is NTN, and the UE can select a cell with the RAT type of NTN according to the RAT type carried in the broadcast message of the cell.

[0446] When AMF1 determines that UE access is not allowed, step 1307b is executed, and AMF2 sends a registration rejection message to the UE. Further, AMF may also send the allowed RAT type to the UE, and the UE can subsequently select the corresponding RAT according to the RAT types allowed by the network side. In another possible implementation, AMF2 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE, and the registration acceptance message includes indication information indicating that the UE is not allowed to use dual connectivity.

[0447] Step 1308: The UE sends an access network (AN) message to RAN2.

[0448] Optionally, the AN message includes dual split indication information, which is used to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0449] Optionally, the UE selects RAN2 on the second path according to the RAT types allowed by the network side obtained in step 807a. For example, if the allowed RAT type is 6G, the UE selects the RAN of 6G for the registration process.

[0450] In a possible implementation, the registration request message in the AN message includes dual split indication information. For example, the dual split indication information is a newly added registration type, and this dual split indication information is a field in the registration type. Exemplarily, the name of the newly added registration type can be DualSteer Registration, and the name is not limited here. This registration type of DualSteer Registration is used to indicate to the network that this registration is for the UE to perform dual connectivity registration for the second path.

[0451] In another possible implementation, the registration request message includes an additional indication information, which indicates to the network that the UE is registering the second path for dual connectivity at this time. The registration type of the UE at this time can be an initial registration. The AMF determines that the registration type of the UE is an initial registration, and based on the indication information of the UE, it can be determined that this registration is for the UE to register the second path for dual connectivity.

[0452] Through the above implementation, after receiving the second registration request message of the same UE, the same AMF can determine the UE context of the UE according to the 5G-GUTI of the UE in the registration request message, and retain the information of the N2 connection of the second path in the UE context information. It can be understood that the AMF can retain two N2 connections for the same UE, or it can be understood that the AMF maintains the N2 connection with the UE through two paths at the same time.

[0453] Step 1309: RAN2 selects an AMF.

[0454] In a possible implementation, the dual-split indication information is in a field that can be parsed by the RAN in the AN parameter. For example, in the AN parameter, or coexists with the AN parameter and the registration request message in the AN message. RAN2 selects an AMF that supports dual connectivity according to the dual-split indication information in the AN message. Since the UE obtains the 5G-GUTI allocated by AMF1 during the first registration, the UE can obtain the identification information of AMF1 according to the 5G-GUTI. The UE can carry the identification information of AMF1 (such as GUAMI or 5G-S-TMSI) in the AN parameter during the second registration. RAN2 determines whether AMF1 supports dual connectivity according to the dual-split indication information and the identification information of AMF1. It should be noted that the RAN will save the information on whether the AMF supports dual connectivity. Exemplarily, the RAN determines the capability information on whether AMF1 supports dual connectivity according to the identification information of AMF1, so as to determine whether AMF1 supports dual connectivity.

[0455] RAN2's selection of an AMF can be divided into the following two cases:

[0456] Case 1: If AMF1 supports maintaining two N2 connections for the same UE at the same time and RAN2 can access it, then RAN2 selects AMF1 to serve the UE.

[0457] Case 2: If AMF1 does not support maintaining two N2 connections for the same UE at the same time, or RAN2 cannot connect to AMF1. For example, when the UE accesses from NTN, due to the large satellite coverage area, the RAN2's ground gateway station may be in a different area from AMF1, and RAN2 and AMF1 cannot be directly connected. Therefore, RAN2 will select an AMF2 different from AMF1 according to its own area.

[0458] For Scenario 1, RAN2 selects AMF1 on the first path. The subsequent steps are shown in 1310a - 1314a below.

[0459] Step 1310a: RAN2 sends a registration request message to AMF1.

[0460] Among them, the registration request message includes 5G - GUTI and dual - split indication information. The 5G - GUTI is used by AMF to associate the UE context created when the UE registers from the first path. The dual - split indication information is used to indicate that the second path is for implementing UE dual - connection, does not need to replace the connection of the UE's first path, or indicates that the UE supports dual - connection, or indicates that the UE hopes to access the network through dual - connection, or indicates to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

[0461] In a possible implementation, RAN2 sends an NGAP message to AMF1, which can also be called an N2 message. Among them, the N2 message includes the registration request message.

[0462] Step 1311a (optional): AMF determines whether to allow the UE to access.

[0463] In a possible implementation, AMF1 determines whether the UE meets the requirements of the first information according to the RAT type to which the UE is currently attached, so as to determine whether to allow the UE to access. It should be noted that the determination of whether to allow the UE to access here refers to whether to allow access to the network through dual - connection. In other words, when the UE does not meet the requirements of the first information, it can still access the network through single - connection in the existing technology. In a possible implementation, when the first information is the RAT type that allows the UE to access the network, AMF1 determines whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the second path. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G, and the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 6G. At this time, AMF1 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access. In another example, the first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G and 6G, and the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 6G. At this time, AMF1 can determine that the UE is allowed to access.

[0464] Exemplarily, the above - mentioned first information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through 5G and 6G. AMF1 can determine whether the first information includes the RAT type corresponding to the second path. When the RAT type corresponding to the second path is 5G or 6G, at this time AMF1 can determine that the UE is allowed to access the network through the second path. When the RAT type corresponding to the second path is 4G, at this time AMF1 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access the network through the second path.

[0465] In another possible implementation, when the first piece of information is a combination of RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, the AMF1 determines whether the first piece of information includes the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path. Exemplarily, the first piece of information is that the UE is allowed to access the network through a combination of 5G and 6G, and the RAT type corresponding to the UE accessing the network through the second path is 4G. In this case, the AMF1 can determine that the UE is not allowed to access.

[0466] For the relevant description of the AMF's determination, refer to the relevant explanation in step 1103 above. Details are not elaborated here. Figure 11 in step 1103 above, and will not be elaborated here.

[0467] It should be noted that since the UE has completed the authentication and security processes during the first registration and accessed the network through the same AMF (i.e., AMF1), the AMF does not need to perform the authentication and security processes for the UE again. The AMF only needs to save the relevant information of the UE's second path in the UE context. Since AMF1 is selected for both registrations, AMF1 can obtain the RAT types of both paths and determine whether to allow the UE to access by comparing the RAT type combination accessed by the UE and the RAT type combination required by the network side.

[0468] When the AMF1 determines to allow the UE to access, it executes step 1312a, and the AMF1 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE through RAN2.

[0469] When the AMF1 determines not to allow the UE to access, it executes step 1313a, and the AMF1 sends a registration rejection message to the UE through RAN2. Further, the AMF1 can also send the allowed RAT types to the UE, and the UE can subsequently select the corresponding RAT according to the RAT types allowed by the network side.

[0470] In one possible implementation, when the AMF determines not to allow the UE to access, it executes step 1314a, and the AMF can accept the registration request of the UE's second path and release the UE's first path. For example, when the network side requires the UE to access through a combination of TN and NTN, the UE accesses the network from TN in the first path and also from TN in the second path. At this time, the RAT type combination of the UE is TN and TN, while the network side requires TN and NTN. Obviously, the UE does not meet the requirements of the network side. Therefore, the AMF can reject the registration request initiated by the UE from the second path, or can also choose to accept the registration request of the UE in the second path and replace the connection of the first path.

[0471] For case 2, when RAN2 selects an AMF2 different from AMF1, the subsequent steps are as follows in 1310b - 1318b.

[0472] Step 1310b: RAN2 sends a registration request message to AMF2.

[0473] Among them, the registration request message includes 5G-GUTI and dual-split indication information. 5G-GUTI is used by AMF2 to indicate AMF1 for the UE's first-path registration. Subsequently, AMF2 can obtain relevant information about the UE context from AMF1. The dual-split indication information is used to indicate that the second path of AMF is for implementing the UE's dual connection. Or it indicates that the UE supports dual connection, or indicates that the UE hopes to access the network through dual connection, or indicates that the connection of the first path is retained when the connection of the second path is established.

[0474] Step 1311b: Obtain UE context information.

[0475] The UE context information includes the RAT type of the UE on the first path.

[0476] In a possible implementation, AMF2 determines AMF1 for the UE's first-path registration according to the identification information of AMF1 in 5G-GUTI, and requests the UE context information from AMF1, which includes the first information obtained by AMF1 from UDM or PCF, that is, the RAT type combination information allowed for the UE to access, and the RAT type of the UE on the first path. It should be noted that when the registration request message sent by the UE to AMF1 in step 1308 includes dual-split indication information, then AMF2 obtains the dual-split indication information from the UE.

[0477] Optionally, the context information sent by AMF1 to AMF2 also includes the UE's dual-split indication information. When the registration request message sent by the UE to AMF1 in step 1301 includes dual-split indication information, then AMF2 can obtain the dual-split indication information from AMF1.

[0478] In another possible implementation, AMF2 obtains the UE's context information from UDM. For example, AMF2 requests the UE's context from UDM, and the request message includes the UE's identification information. AMF2 receives the UE's context from UDM, where the UE's context includes the RAT type of the UE on the first path.

[0479] Step 1312b (optional): AMF2 determines whether the UE is allowed to access.

[0480] In a possible implementation, AMF2 determines whether the UE meets the requirements of the first information according to the RAT type to which the UE is currently connected, so as to determine whether to allow the UE to access. It should be noted that the determination of whether to allow the UE to access here refers to whether to allow access to the network through dual connection. In other words, when the UE does not meet the requirements of the first information, it can still access the network through single connection in the prior art.

[0481] For the relevant description, refer to the description related to step 1103 above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0482] When AMF2 determines that UE access is allowed, step 1316b is executed.

[0483] When AMF2 determines that UE access is not allowed, step 1317b is executed to retain the previous first path or step 1318b is executed to retain the newly established second path. Further, AMF may also send the allowed RAT types to the UE, and the UE can subsequently select the corresponding RAT according to the RAT types allowed by the network side. Exemplarily, the allowed RAT type is NTN, and the UE can select a cell with the RAT type of NTN according to the RAT type carried in the broadcast message of the cell.

[0484] Step 1313b: AMF2 triggers the authentication and security procedure among the UE, AUSF, and UDM.

[0485] For the relevant description, refer to the relevant description in Figure 2 step 204 above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0486] Step 1314b: AMF2 sends a registration request message to the UDM.

[0487] Among them, the registration request message includes dual split indication information. The registration request message is used for AMF 2 to register with the UDM as the AMF serving the UE.

[0488] After obtaining the dual split indication information, the UDM determines that two different UE contexts can be saved for the UE in the UDM, so the second UE context is saved for the UE, that is, the UDM determines that two different UE contexts can be saved for the UE under the same access type.

[0489] It should be noted that if AMF2 determines that the RAT type to which the UE is currently attached cannot meet the requirements of the network side. For example, the network side requires the UE to access the network through the RAT type combination of TN and NTN, while the RAT type currently selected by the UE is TN and TN, then AMF2 believes that the UE cannot access the network through these two paths at the same time. At this time, the registration request message sent by AMF2 to the UDM does not include dual split indication information, that is, the UDM will determine according to the registration request message sent by AMF2 that AMF2 is used to replace AMF1, so the UDM sends a deregistration request to AMF1, thereby causing AMF1 to deregister.

[0490] Step 1315b: The UDM sends a registration response message to AMF 2.

[0491] Step 1316b: AMF 2 sends a registration acceptance message to the UE.

[0492] If AMF2 determines that the RAT type to which the UE is currently attached meets the requirements of the network side, AMF2 may allow the UE to attach through the current RAT type and send a registration acceptance message to the UE.

[0493] Step 1317b: AMF2 sends a registration rejection message to the UE.

[0494] Optionally, the registration rejection message includes the allowed RAT types. Subsequently, the UE may select the RAT type corresponding to the allowed RAT type according to the network side and register to the network.

[0495] One possible implementation is that AMF2 determines the allowed RAT types according to the first information and the RAT type of the first path. Exemplarily, the first information is that the UE is allowed to attach to the network through a combination of 5G and 6G, and the RAT type of the first path is 5G. Therefore, the registration rejection message sent to the UE includes the allowed RAT type as the 6G RAT type.

[0496] Step 1318b: AMF2 receives the second path and releases the first path.

[0497] In one possible implementation, AMF2 sends a registration acceptance message for the second path to the UE through RAN2, and releases the first path by which the UE attaches to the network through RAN1 and AMF1.

[0498] In one possible implementation, the registration acceptance message for the second path includes the first information.

[0499] It should be noted that when AMF2 determines that the UE is not allowed to attach, one possible situation is that the first information is that the UE is allowed to attach to the network through a combination of 5G and 6G, the first path is the 5G RAT type, and the second path is also the 5G RAT type. Therefore, one of the paths may be retained. One possible implementation is to retain the second path and release the first path.

[0500] In one possible implementation, AMF2 may send a request message to release the first path to the UDM, and then the UDM releases the first path connecting AMF1 and RAN1.

[0501] Through the steps of method 1300, in a dual-connectivity scenario, the UE obtains, via the AMF, from the UDM or the PCF the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, enabling the AMF to determine whether the UE can access the network via the current path based on the RAT type of the current path and the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network, and sending the RAT types that allow the UE to access the network to the UE. As a result, the UE can access the network via the RAT types specified by the network. By notifying the UE of the RAT types allowed to access the network, the UE selects a suitable RAT type for access, avoiding the UE selecting an RAT that it cannot access and increasing the success rate of the UE's access.

[0502] The following combines the attached Figure 14 drawings to introduce method 1400 for a communication device to obtain RAT types during the registration process provided by an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that, for example Figure 14 is used for introduction here, and this method is applicable to any of the above Figures 5 - 13 processes. The communication device can be a terminal device (such as Figure 1 UE 110 in

[0503] As Figure 14 shown in the schematic diagram of the communication method process, the following steps can be included:

[0504] Step 1401: The communication device sends a registration request message to the access and mobility management network element.

[0505] The registration request message includes second indication information indicating that the communication device supports dual connectivity.

[0506] There are the following two situations for the communication device to send a registration request message to the mobility management network element:

[0507] Situation 1: The communication device registers to the network via the first path.

[0508] Situation 2: The communication device has already accessed the network via the first path, and at this time, the communication device registers to the network via the second path.

[0509] In a possible implementation, the second indication information can be the indication information in method 600, and the specific implementation of step 1401 can refer to the above steps 602 - step 605.

[0510] In another possible implementation, the second indication information can be the information used to generate a different communication device context for the second path from the first path in method 800, and the specific implementation of step 1401 can refer to the above step 802.

[0511] In still another possible implementation, the second indication information may be the indication information in method 1000, and the specific implementation of step 1401 may refer to the above steps 1000 - 1004.

[0512] Step 1402: The access and mobility management entity obtains the second information.

[0513] The access and mobility management entity obtains the second information according to the second indication information. The second information indicates the RAT type that allows the communication device to access the network.

[0514] In one possible implementation, the specific implementation of step 1402 may refer to step 1102 in method 1100.

[0515] In another possible implementation, the specific implementation of step 1402 may refer to step 1202 in method 1200.

[0516] In still another possible implementation, the specific implementation of step 1402 may refer to step 1305 in method 1300.

[0517] Step 1403: The access and mobility management entity determines whether to allow the communication device to access according to the second information.

[0518] In one possible implementation, the second information includes the RAT type corresponding to the access path of the communication device, and the access and mobility management entity sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device (perform step 1404a). For case 1, the registration acceptance message may further include the second information.

[0519] In one possible implementation, the second information does not include the RAT type corresponding to the access path of the communication device, and the access and mobility management entity sends a registration rejection message to the communication device (perform step 1404b).

[0520] For case 2, in one possible implementation, the second information includes the combination of the RAT types corresponding to the two paths, and the access and mobility management entity sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device (perform step 1404a).

[0521] For case 2, in one possible implementation, the second information does not include the combination of the RAT types corresponding to the two paths, and the access and mobility management entity sends a registration rejection message to the communication device (perform step 1404b).

[0522] For case 2, in another possible implementation, the second information does not include the combination of RAT types corresponding to the two paths. The access and mobility management entity sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device through the second path and releases the connection of the first path. For related descriptions, refer to step 1104c in method 1100 or step 1204c in method 1200.

[0523] Step 1404a: The access and mobility management entity sends a registration acceptance message to the communication device.

[0524] In a possible implementation, the registration acceptance message includes the second information. For the specific implementation of step 1404a, refer to step 1104a in method 1100 or step 1204a in method 1200.

[0525] Step 1404b: The access and mobility management entity sends a registration rejection message to the communication device.

[0526] In a possible implementation, the registration rejection message includes the second information. For the specific implementation of step 1404b, refer to step 1104b in method 1100 or step 1204b in method 1200.

[0527] Step 1405: The communication device selects a radio access network device according to the second information.

[0528] In a possible implementation, the communication device sends an AN message to the radio access network device of the RAT type allowed to access the network according to the second information. The AN message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. It should be noted that the communication device can execute this step when it cannot access the network through two paths. For example, when the communication device receives a registration acceptance message or a registration rejection message for the first path, or when the communication device receives a registration rejection message for the second path, it can select a radio access network device that meets the second information to access the network.

[0529] By obtaining the RAT type allowed for the communication device to access the network through the access and mobility management entity, the access and mobility management entity can determine whether the communication device can access the network through the current path according to the RAT type of the current path and the RAT type allowed for the communication device to access the network, and send the RAT type allowed for the communication device to access the network to the communication device. As a result, the communication device can access the network through the RAT type specified by the network. By notifying the UE of the RAT type allowed to access the network through the network, the UE can select an appropriate RAT type to access, avoiding the UE selecting an RAT that cannot be accessed and increasing the success rate of the UE's access.

[0530] As described above in conjunction with Figures 5 to 14, which details the method-side embodiments of this application. Next, the apparatus-side embodiments of this application will be described in detail in conjunction with Figures 15 to 17 . The apparatus-side embodiments of this application will be described in detail. It should be understood that the descriptions of the apparatus embodiments correspond to those of the method embodiments. Therefore, for parts not described in detail, reference may be made to the previous method embodiments.

[0531] Figure 15 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication apparatus 1000 provided by an embodiment of this application. As Figure 15 shown, the apparatus 1000 may include a transceiver unit 1010 and a processing unit 1020. The transceiver unit 1010 may communicate with the outside, and the processing unit 1020 is used for data processing. The transceiver unit 1010 may also be referred to as a communication interface or a transceiver unit.

[0532] In a possible design, the apparatus 1000 may implement the steps or processes executed by the communication apparatus corresponding to the above method embodiments. Among them, the processing unit 1020 is used to execute the operations related to the processing of the communication apparatus in the above method embodiments, and the transceiver unit 1010 is used to execute the operations related to the transceiver of the communication apparatus in the above method embodiments.

[0533] In another possible design, the apparatus 1000 may implement the steps or processes executed by the access and mobility management network element corresponding to the above method embodiments. Among them, the transceiver unit 1010 is used to execute the operations related to the transceiver of the access and mobility management network element in the above method embodiments, and the processing unit 1020 is used to execute the operations related to the processing of the access and mobility management network element in the above method embodiments.

[0534] In still another possible design, the apparatus 1000 may implement the steps or processes executed by the radio access network device corresponding to the above method embodiments. Among them, the processing unit 1020 is used to execute the operations related to the processing of the radio access network device in the above method embodiments, and the transceiver unit 1010 is used to execute the operations related to the transceiver of the radio access network device in the above method embodiments.

[0535] It should be understood that the device 1000 here is embodied in the form of functional units. The term "unit" here may refer to an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (such as a shared processor, a proprietary processor, or a group of processors, etc.) for executing one or more software or firmware programs, and a memory, a combined logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that support the described functions. In an alternative example, those skilled in the art can understand that the device 1000 can specifically be the sending end in the above embodiments, and can be used to execute each process and / or step corresponding to the sending end in the above method embodiments. Or, the device 2000 can specifically be the receiving end in the above embodiments, and can be used to execute each process and / or step corresponding to the receiving end in the above method embodiments. To avoid repetition, details are not described here again.

[0536] The device 1000 in each of the above solutions has the function of implementing the corresponding steps executed by the sending end in the above method, or the device 1000 in each of the above solutions has the function of implementing the corresponding steps executed by the receiving end in the above method. The function can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions; for example, the transceiver unit can be replaced by a transceiver (for example, the sending unit in the transceiver unit can be replaced by a transmitter, and the receiving unit in the transceiver unit can be replaced by a receiver), and other units, such as the processing unit, etc., can be replaced by a processor to respectively execute the transceiver operations and related processing operations in each method embodiment.

[0537] In addition, the above transceiver unit can also be a transceiver circuit (for example, it can include a receiving circuit and a sending circuit), and the processing unit can be a processing circuit. In the embodiments of the present application, the device 1000 can be the receiving end or the sending end in the foregoing embodiments, or can be a chip or a chip system, for example: a system on chip (SoC). Among them, the transceiver unit can be an input / output circuit, a communication interface. The processing unit is a processor, a microprocessor, or an integrated circuit integrated on the chip. This is not limited here.

[0538] Figure 16 is a schematic structural diagram of the communication device 2000 provided by the embodiments of the present application. As Figure 16 shown, the device 2000 includes a processor 2010 and a transceiver 2020. Among them, the processor 2010 and the transceiver 2020 communicate with each other through an internal connection path. The processor 2010 is used to execute instructions to control the transceiver 2020 to send signals and / or receive signals.

[0539] Optionally, the device 2000 may further include a memory 2030, which communicates with the processor 2010 and the transceiver 2020 through an internal connection path. The memory 2030 is used to store instructions, and the processor 2010 can execute the instructions stored in the memory 2030.

[0540] In a possible implementation, the device 2000 is used to implement each process and step corresponding to the communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0541] In another possible implementation, the device 2000 is used to implement each process and step corresponding to the access and mobility management network element in the above method embodiments.

[0542] In still another possible implementation, the device 2000 is used to implement each process and step corresponding to the radio access network device in the above method embodiments.

[0543] It should be understood that the device 2000 may specifically be the sending end or the receiving end in the above embodiments, or may be a chip or a chip system. Correspondingly, the transceiver 2020 may be the transceiver circuit of the chip, which is not limited herein. Specifically, the device 2000 may be used to execute each step and / or process corresponding to the sending end or the receiving end in the above method embodiments.

[0544] Optionally, the memory 2030 may include a read-only memory and a random access memory, and provide instructions and data to the processor. A part of the memory may further include a non-volatile random access memory. For example, the memory may also store information about the device type. The processor 2010 may be used to execute the instructions stored in the memory, and when the processor 2010 executes the instructions stored in the memory, the processor 2010 is used to execute each step and / or process of the above method embodiments corresponding to the sending end or the receiving end.

[0545] In the implementation process, each step of the above method may be completed by the integrated logic circuit in the hardware of the processor or the instructions in the form of software. The steps of the method disclosed in combination with the embodiments of the present application may be directly embodied as being executed by the hardware processor, or executed by a combination of the hardware and software modules in the processor. The software module may be located in a mature storage medium in the art such as a random access memory, a flash memory, a read-only memory, a programmable read-only memory, or an electrically erasable programmable memory, a register, etc. The storage medium is located in the memory, and the processor reads the information in the memory and combines its hardware to complete the steps of the above method. To avoid repetition, it will not be described in detail here.

[0546] It should be noted that the processor in the embodiments of the present application may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In the implementation process, each step of the above method embodiments may be completed by the integrated logic circuit in the hardware of the processor or instructions in the form of software. The above processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components. The processor in the embodiments of the present application may implement or execute the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of the present application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or the processor may also be any conventional processor, etc. The steps of the method disclosed in combination with the embodiments of the present application may be directly embodied as being executed and completed by a hardware decoding processor, or executed and completed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software module may be located in a mature storage medium in the art such as a random access memory, a flash memory, a read-only memory, a programmable read-only memory, or an electrically erasable programmable memory, a register, etc. This storage medium is located in the memory, and the processor reads the information in the memory and combines its hardware to complete the steps of the above method.

[0547] It can be understood that the memory in the embodiments of the present application may be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memories. Among them, the non-volatile memory may be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or a flash memory. The volatile memory may be a random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory, dynamic random access memory, synchronous dynamic random access memory, double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory, enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory, synchronous link dynamic random access memory, and direct memory bus random access memory. It should be noted that the memory of the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0548] Figure 17 is a schematic structural diagram of a chip system 3000 provided by an embodiment of the present application. As Figure 17 shown, the chip system 3000 (or may also be referred to as a processing system) includes a logic circuit 3010 and an input / output interface 3020.

[0549] Among them, the logic circuit 3010 can be the processing circuit in the chip system 3000. The logic circuit 3010 can be coupled to the storage unit and call the instructions in the storage unit, enabling the chip system 3000 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present application. The input / output interface 3020 can be the input / output circuit in the chip system 3000, outputting the information processed by the chip system 3000, or inputting the data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 3000 for processing.

[0550] As a solution, the chip system 3000 is used to implement the operations performed by the communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0551] As a solution, the chip system 3000 is used to implement the operations performed by the access and mobility management network element in the above method embodiments.

[0552] As a solution, the chip system 3000 is used to implement the operations performed by the radio access network device in the above method embodiments.

[0553] The embodiments of the present application further provide a computer-readable storage medium, on which computer instructions for implementing the methods performed by the communication device, the access and mobility management network element, and the radio access network device in the above method embodiments are stored.

[0554] The embodiments of the present application further provide a computer program product, including computer program code or instructions. When the computer program code or instructions run on a computer, the computer implements the methods performed by the communication device, the access and mobility management network element, and the radio access network device in the above method embodiments.

[0555] The embodiments of the present application further provide a communication system, including the aforementioned communication device, access and mobility management network element, and radio access network device. Optionally, it may further include a UDM or a PCF.

[0556] For the explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant content in any of the above-mentioned devices, reference can be made to the corresponding method embodiments provided above, which will not be elaborated here.

[0557] To facilitate the understanding of the above embodiments provided by the present application, the following points are explained:

[0558] 1) In the present application, if there is no special explanation and logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced to each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0559] 2) In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "a plurality" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between associated objects and indicates that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. In the written description of this application, the character " / " generally represents an "or" relationship between the associated objects before and after. "At least one (item)" or a similar expression refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single item or plural items. For example, at least one (item) among a, b, and c can represent: a, or b, or c, or a and b, or a and c, or b and c, or a, b, and c. Where a, b, and c can be single or multiple respectively.

[0560] 3) In this application, "first", "second", and various numerical numbers (such as #1, #2, etc.) are used for distinction for the convenience of description and do not limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. For example, to distinguish different messages, etc., rather than for describing a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the objects described in this way can be interchanged under appropriate circumstances so as to be able to describe solutions other than the embodiments of this application.

[0561] 4) In this application, descriptions such as "when...", "in the case of...", and "if" all refer to the device will perform corresponding processing under a certain objective situation, which does not limit the time, and it is not required that the device must have a judgment action during implementation, nor does it mean that there are other limitations.

[0562] 5) In this application, "for indicating" can include for direct indication and for indirect indication. When describing that a certain indication information is used to indicate A, it can include that the indication information directly indicates A or indirectly indicates A, and it does not mean that A must be carried in the indication information.

[0563] The indication methods involved in the embodiments of this application should be understood to cover various methods that can enable the party to be indicated to obtain the indication information. The indication information can be sent as a whole, or can be divided into multiple sub-information and sent separately, and the sending periods and / or sending times of these sub-information can be the same or different. This application does not limit the specific sending method.

[0564] The "indication information" in the embodiments of this application can be explicit indication, that is, directly indicated by signaling, or according to the parameters indicated by signaling, combined with other rules or combined with other parameters or obtained by derivation. It can also be implicit indication, that is, obtained according to rules or relationships, or according to other parameters, or by derivation. This application does not make specific limitations on this.

[0565] 6) In this application, "protocol" may refer to standard protocols in the field of communication. For example, it may include 5G protocols, NR protocols, and related protocols applied to future communication systems. This application does not limit it. "Pre-defined" may include pre-definition. For example, protocol definition. "Pre-configuration" can be achieved by pre-saving corresponding codes, tables, or other means that can be used to indicate relevant information in the device. This application does not limit its specific implementation method.

[0566] 7) In this application, "communication" can also be described as "data transmission", "information transmission", "data processing", etc. "Transmission" includes "sending" and "receiving".

[0567] Those of ordinary skill in the art can realize that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in combination with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented by electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are executed in a hardware or software manner depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional technicians can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to exceed the scope of this application.

[0568] Those skilled in the art can clearly understand that for the convenience and conciseness of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments and will not be elaborated herein.

[0569] In several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are only illustrative. For example, the division of the units is only a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the displayed or discussed mutual coupling, direct coupling, or communication connection may be through some interfaces. The indirect coupling or communication connection of the devices or units may be in an electrical, mechanical, or other form.

[0570] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated. The components displayed as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place, or may be distributed to multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the solution of this embodiment.

[0571] In addition, the functional units in each embodiment of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically alone, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0572] If the above-mentioned functions are realized in the form of software function units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of this technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions for causing a computer device to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes: various media that can store program codes, such as USB flash drives, mobile hard disks, read-only memories, random access memories, magnetic disks, or optical discs.

[0573] As described above, the above is only the specific implementation manner of this application, but the protection scope of this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application can easily think of changes or substitutions, and all should be covered by the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, the method includes: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management function; The communication device sends a request message to a second radio access network device, where the request message is used to request registering the communication device to the network, the request message includes indication information, and the indication information is used for the second radio access network device to select a second access and mobility management function different from the first access and mobility management function. The communication device simultaneously accesses the network through the first path and a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management function.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, where the two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two different access and mobility management functions; or the indication information indicates selecting a different access and mobility management function.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The request message includes access network parameters, where the access network parameters include the indication information.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The request message further includes identification information of the first access and mobility management function.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Before the communication device sends a request message to the second radio access network device, the method further includes: The communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, where the two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two different access and mobility management functions.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, the method includes: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management function; The communication device sends a request message to a second access and mobility management function through a second radio access network device, where the request message is used to request registering the communication device to the network, the request message includes information for the second access and mobility management function to generate a context of the communication device different from the first path, and the second access and mobility management function is the same as or different from the first access and mobility management function. The communication device simultaneously accesses the network through the first path and a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management function.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The information for the second access and mobility management network element to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements; or, the information for the second access and mobility management network element to generate the context of the communication device different from the first path indicates to create the context of the communication device.

8. A communication method, characterized in that, the method includes: The communication device accesses the network through a first path connecting a first radio access network device and a first access and mobility management network element; The communication device sends a request message to a second access and mobility management network element through a second radio access network device. The request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network. The request message includes indication information, and the indication information is used to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path. The second access and mobility management network element is the same as or different from the first access and mobility management network element. The communication device accesses the network through the first path and a second path connecting the second radio access network device and the second access and mobility management network element simultaneously.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements; or, the indication information indicates to retain the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The request message includes a registration type, wherein the indication information is a field in the registration type, and the field in the registration type is a dual-connection registration.

11. The method according to any one of claims 8-10, characterized in that, Before the communication device sends a request message to the second radio access network device, the method further includes: The communication device determines that it hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously. The two different paths are respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The access types corresponding to the first path and the second path are the 3GPP access types of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The method further includes: The communication device receives first information, and the first information is used to indicate the radio access technology (RAT) type that allows the communication device to access the network. The communication device selects a radio access network device corresponding to a RAT type allowed to access the network and registers it to the network according to the first information.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, the RAT type corresponding to the second radio access network device is included in the RAT types allowed to access the network.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, the communication device receiving the first information includes: the communication device receiving the first information from the first access and mobility management network element or the second access and mobility management network element.

16. A communication method, wherein, the method includes: an access and mobility management network element establishing a connection with a communication device through a first path with a first radio access network device; the access and mobility management network element receiving, from the communication device through a second path with a second radio access network device, a request message for requesting to register the communication device to the network, the request message including indication information; the access and mobility management network element retaining the connection of the first path when registering to the network through the second path according to the indication information.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, the two different paths being respectively connected to two different radio access network devices and two identical or different access and mobility management network elements; or the indication information indicates retaining the connection of the first path when establishing the connection of the second path.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, the access and mobility management network element retaining the connection of the first path when registering to the network through the second path according to the indication information includes: the access and mobility management network element determining, according to the indication information, that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or determining that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously, so as to retain the connection of the first path when registering to the network through the second path.

19. The method according to any one of claims 16-18, wherein, the method further includes: the access and mobility management network element obtaining first information, the first information indicating a radio access technology (RAT) type allowing the communication device to access the network.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, the access and mobility management network element obtaining the first information includes: the access and mobility management network element receiving the first information from a unified data management network element or a policy control network element.

21. A communication method, wherein, the method includes: a radio access network device receiving, from a communication device, a request message for requesting to register the communication device to the network, the request message including indication information; The radio access network device obtains the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element; The radio access network device selects a second access and mobility management network element different from the first access and mobility management network element according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element and the indication information.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The request message includes access network parameters, wherein the access network parameters include the indication information.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein, The identification information of the first access and mobility management network element is obtained from the request message.

24. A communication method, wherein, The method includes: The radio access network device receives a request message from a communication device, the request message is used to request to register the communication device to the network, the request message includes indication information, and the indication information indicates that the communication device supports accessing the network through two different paths simultaneously, or indicates that the communication device hopes to access the network through two different paths simultaneously; The radio access network device selects an access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to the indication information, and the access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity is the access and mobility management network element that supports maintaining a connection with the communication device through two different paths simultaneously.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein, The request message includes access network parameters, wherein the access network parameters include the indication information.

26. The method according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, The request message further includes the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element, and the method further includes: The radio access network device determines whether the first access and mobility management network element supports dual connectivity according to the identification information of the first access and mobility management network element; The radio access network device selects an access and mobility management network element that supports dual connectivity according to the indication information, including: When the first access and mobility management network element supports dual connectivity, the radio access network device selects the first access and mobility management network element to access the network.

27. A communication device, wherein, The communication device includes a module for executing the communication method according to any one of claims 1-15.

28. An access and mobility management network element, wherein, The access and mobility management network element includes a module for executing the communication method according to any one of claims 16-20.

29. A radio access network device, wherein, The radio access network device includes a module for executing the communication method according to any one of claims 21-26.

30. A computer-readable storage medium, wherein, The computer-readable storage medium includes a computer program or instruction, and when the computer program or instruction runs on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1-26.

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